President, prime minister wish Nepalis on Chhath

KATHMANDU: President Ram Chandra Paudel, Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav and other political leaders have extended greetings to Nepalis on the occasion of the Chhath festival.

They have wished for peace, prosperity and stronger social harmony.

In his message on Sunday, President Paudel expressed confidence that the festival would help strengthen national unity by promoting an end to social discrimination, harmful practices and inequalities based on class, caste and gender.

He said Chhath, traditionally celebrated in the Tarai and Madhesh regions, is increasingly being observed in Kathmandu Valley and other hilly and mountainous districts. The festival also promotes respect for nature, environmental awareness and family solidarity, he said.

Vice President Yadav described Chhath as an important part of Nepal’s cultural identity, saying it brings people from the Himalayan, hilly and Madhesh regions together through shared traditions. He also highlighted the festival’s connection with nature and its emphasis on cleanliness and conservation of rivers, ponds and lakes.

Similarly, Prime Minister Balendra Shah has extended warm wishes to all Nepalis at home and abroad on the auspicious occasion of Chhath.

“Observed through prayers to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, the festival is celebrated primarily with prayers for family happiness, peace, good health and the long life of children,” he said in the message. “Chhath teaches us a profound lesson about life. Both the setting and rising sun are offered arghya with equal reverence and respect.”

The four-day festival is observed through a series of rituals. The first day is known as Nahay-Khay, followed by Kharna on the second day. On the third day, devotees offer arghya to the setting sun in the evening, while on the fourth and final day, they make offerings to the rising sun in the morning, usually from the banks of rivers, ponds and other water bodies.