Chhath Puja 2020: Uttar Pradesh Govt Urges People to Celebrate at Home, Follow COVID-19 Protocol
Meanwhile, preparations have begun for Chhath Puja in Lucknow's Hasanganj area and on the banks of the river Ganga in Varanasi. "Only a few devotees have come for preparations of Chhath Puja amid COVID-19. Unlike this year, the place is usually filled with devotees," a devotee said.
Lucknow, November 18: The Uttar Pradesh government has issued an advisory for Chhath Puja in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, advising people to perform rituals at their homes or nearby, as much as possible.
However, the government said that arrangements will be made by the local administration at the traditional spots near rivers/ponds for the puja. People must follow COVID-19 protocols like wearing masks and abide by social distancing, stated the government. Also Read | Oppo X 2021 Concept Phone & AR Glass 2021 Officially Unveiled.
Chhath is dedicated to the Sun God and is one of the most popular festivals for the people of Bihar and parts of Uttar Pradesh or Purvanchal. Devotees gather and take a holy dip in rivers, ponds, and other water bodies during the four-day festivities from November 19 to 20. Also Read | Gujarat Road Accident: 9 Dead, 17 Injured in a Collision Between 2 Trucks at Waghodia Crossing Highway in Vadodara.
Chhath puja is mainly observed by the people of Bihar, Jharkhand, and bordering areas in Uttar Pradesh, and it will be celebrated on November 20. This year, the main celebration is on November 20 when devotees will offer 'argha' to Sun God.
Meanwhile, preparations have begun for Chhath Puja in Lucknow's Hasanganj area and on the banks of the river Ganga in Varanasi. "Only a few devotees have come for preparations of Chhath Puja amid COVID-19. Unlike this year, the place is usually filled with devotees," a devotee said.
(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)