Delhi ghats illuminated with Chhath devotion as sunset approaches

As the sun dipped behind the horizon, families and community groups assembled on the ghats of the Yamuna River, arranging makeshift altars and offering prayers to the sun deity. The scene was marked by rows of earthen lamps, fragrant incense, and the rhythmic chanting of hymns, creating a vivid display of devotion that attracted onlookers from across the city. Organisers coordinated the event to ensure safety, deploying volunteers to manage crowds and provide first‑aid stations, reflecting the authorities’ increasing accommodation of diverse religious observances.

Chhath, traditionally celebrated in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, has migrated to the national capital alongside its diaspora, signalling broader cultural diffusion. The festival’s visibility in Delhi underscores the city’s evolving religious and the willingness of municipal bodies to allocate public spaces for such gatherings. Local vendors capitalised on the occasion, setting up stalls selling traditional sweets, bamboo baskets, and ritual paraphernalia, thereby generating modest economic activity in the vicinity.

The gathering also sparked conversations about environmental stewardship, as participants were urged to keep the riverbanks clean and avoid plastic waste. Environmental NGOs collaborated with community leaders to distribute biodegradable plates and promote responsible disposal of offerings. The successful execution of the event may encourage city planners to incorporate more flexible public‑space policies that accommodate a spectrum of cultural practices in the months ahead.