Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her cabinet colleagues conducted a thorough review of preparations at several Chhath ghats in Delhi on Wednesday. Their inspections come ahead of the forthcoming Chhath Puja, slated to take place from October 25 to 28.
During her visit to key ghats including Prembadi, Silangpur, and Munak Canal, Gupta expressed optimism. She stated that following a remarkable Diwali celebration, Delhi is ready to embrace a ‘divine and devotional’ Chhath festival this year.
Gupta emphasized the government’s commitment to providing facilities that enable devotees to observe the rituals with faith and purity. More than 1,000 dedicated Chhath ghats are under development throughout Delhi, highlighting 17 special model ghats along the Yamuna River. “At least one model ghat is being developed in each sub-district,” she reported.
The government plans to host cultural programmes associated with Chhath Puja at around 200 ghats. Gupta pointed out that essential amenities, including tents, electricity, drinking water, sanitation, and toilets, will be readily available at these venues.
Gupta noted, “This will be the first time the Delhi government participates in such a large-scale religious and cultural event.” She drew comparisons to the grand celebrations during Diwali, underlining the upcoming Chhath festival’s importance and expected grandeur.
“Delhi is not only the political capital but also becoming the capital of faith,” she remarked, reinforcing her administration’s dedication to uphold cultural traditions.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa shared insights after their visit to Hathi Ghat near ITO. He confirmed that the government has green-lighted Chhath celebrations along the Yamuna banks for the first time in decades. “What could not be done in the last 25 years has been achieved within six months of our government,” he declared.
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra accompanied MP Manoj Tiwari during a visit to Sonia Vihar Ghat, highlighting the government’s fulfilment of its election promise. Mishra stated, “Chhath Puja will now be celebrated not only on the Yamuna banks but also at around 1,300 other ghats.” This move reversed a previous ban and showcases a significant shift in policy.
In South Delhi, MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri engaged with local communities in Deoli and Sangam Vihar, initiating a cleanliness drive backed by various Chhath Puja Committees. He reinforced the cultural significance of Chhath, stating, “Chhath is a symbol of cultural unity and faith.” He highlighted that his government has withdrawn any cases against individuals celebrating the festival, whereas the previous administration had enacted such measures.
Prominent figures including MLA Chandan Chaudhary, South District BJP President Maya Bisht, Councillor Satpal Anita Singhal, and multiple party members participated actively in the cleanliness initiative.
Meanwhile, Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh positively inspected ghats in the Bawana constituency. He instructed officials to finalize preparations by Friday morning and suggested developing Rohini’s Lake Park as Delhi’s ‘Model Chhath Ghat.’ This integration reflects the government’s focus on enhancing public facilities.
Chhath Puja, a revered four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, will see thousands of devotees participating across the national capital from October 25 to 28. With elaborate arrangements and a strong governmental presence, this Chhath serves to highlight Delhi’s rich cultural tapestry.
