Welcome to Kota Institute of Competitions' blog, where we dive into the significance, rituals, and unique beauty of India's rich festivals. Today, we explore Chhath Puja 2024, an ancient festival that embodies reverence, dedication, and the spirit of community. What is Chhath Puja? Chhath Puja, celebrated mainly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, is an ancient Hindu festival devoted to the worship of Lord Surya (Sun God) and his consort Chhathi Maiya. It spans four days, honoring the sun as a vital force of life, bringing together millions of devotees who gather by rivers, lakes, and ponds to express their gratitude for the Sun's life-giving energy. Why is Chhath Puja Celebrated? The festival has roots in Vedic traditions where the Sun was worshipped as a source of healing, vitality, and prosperity. Chhath Puja represents a spiritual connection with nature and the elements, honoring the Sun as a universal provider of health and growth. Devotees, or vratis, fast...