KATHMANDU: The Chhath festival, celebrated with deep faith and devotion to the Sun God, concluded this morning (Tuesday) with devotees offering arghya (ritual offerings) to the rising sun.

According to religious tradition, the festival ends after devotees make offerings of cow’s milk, flowers, and holy water to the rising sun while sitting by riverbanks.

Similar to the evening ritual of offering arghya to the setting sun on Monday, devotees completed the festival by worshipping the rising sun today.

The ritual concludes after devotees, standing waist-deep in water, view the sunrise and offer prayers.

It is believed that all life on Earth is sustained by water and the sun; therefore, rivers are revered as mothers and the sun as the ultimate source of energy.

Worshipping the Sun during is said to fulfill one’s desires and grant blessings, as mentioned in Hindu scriptures.

On this occasion, married men and women pray for the long life of their spouses, while unmarried devotees seek a suitable partner.

Many also observe the fast in hopes of having children. Devotees believe that sincere observance of the Chhath fast fulfills heartfelt wishes.