Kathmandu: On the second day of the Chhath festival, known as Kartik Shukla Panchami, devotees across Nepal offered Kharana—a rice pudding that is considered sacred and is taken as prasad—in honor of Sasthi Maata. Traditionally, this day involves devotees consuming fruits only once, as part of their fasting ritual.

Anil Singh of the Gaurighat Chhath Worship Committee shared that tomorrow, on Kartik Shukla Sasthi, worshippers will observe a strict fast and offer argha (a traditional prayer offering) to the setting sun, marking the main day of Chhath. According to religious beliefs, offering argha to the Sun is thought to prevent skin diseases, strengthening the connection between physical wellness and ritual observance.

Several prominent riverbanks and sites—Gaurighat, Kamalpokhari, and areas along the Bagmati, Nakkhu, and Bishnumati rivers—have been beautifully decorated for the festival, allowing devotees to celebrate in a festive and reverent environment.

Various leaders, including Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Devraj Ghimire, extended their best wishes on the occasion. Deuba described Chhath as a festival that celebrates Nepal’s cultural heritage and social unity, promoting reconciliation and mutual respect among all communities. Prime Minister Oli highlighted the ancient tradition of Sun worship as a tribute to the source of life, while Speaker Ghimire emphasized the importance of social unity and harmony.

National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal also conveyed his wishes, expressing hope that Chhath would further strengthen Nepal’s tradition of mutual respect across diverse cultural and religious practices. With these leaders’ messages, Chhath is seen not only as a time of religious observance but also as an embodiment of Nepal's harmonious and multicultural identity.