Chhath Puja: A Timeless Tradition

As Diwali's twinkling lights faded, my community vibrated with anticipation for Chhath Puja, a majestic festival honoring the Sun God. This unique celebration reveres both the setting and rising sun, symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. We worship the setting sun to acknowledge the end of one day and the rising sun to welcome the dawn of a new day, seeking the Sun God's blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness.

What makes Chhath Puja truly special is its inclusivity and simplicity. It doesn't require the presence of a priest or idols, emphasizing the direct connection between the devotee and the divine. Moreover, this puja transcends social and economic barriers, as both the rich and poor can participate with equal fervor. All that's needed are seasonal fruits, homemade prasad, and a genuine devotion to the Sun God.

A vital aspect of Chhath Puja is the rigorous fasting observed by devotees, known as Vratis. For 36 hours, they abstain from food and water, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to the Sun God. This fasting period culminates in the breaking of the fast at sunrise, symbolizing renewal and rejuvenation.

My childhood memories of Chhath Puja are woven with warmth and love. My grandparents would visit, and my Amma and mother would lovingly prepare for the festivities together. I'd accompany my father to purchase fruits and essentials, while my sister helped with decorations.

The trip to the Chhath ghat was unforgettable – my Amma and mother walking barefoot on the pebbled path, inspiring me with their steadfast devotion. Firecrackers illuminated the evening sky, accompanied by Sharda Sinha's soulful melodies.

My Amma's unwavering faith and my mother's loving support created an unbreakable bond, making Chhath Puja truly special. Though life has changed, those timeless memories linger. Every year, as Chhath Puja approaches, I'm filled with nostalgia.

Sharda Sinha's classic songs transport me back to those magical days. Memories stay, reliving the essence of Chhath Puja – a testament to the enduring power of tradition, family, and love.

The Waiting Room

I sat in a crowded eye hospital waiting room, surrounded by people of all ages. Children played on their parents' phones, while elderly individuals sat alone, struggling.

A young mother soothed her crying toddler nearby, while an elderly woman struggled to fill out a form. No one helped her.

I felt sad. These parents had once selflessly taken their kids to school and appointments, sacrificing their own needs. Now, their children were consumed by their careers, chasing success, but forgetting the ones who needed them most. In their relentless pursuit of prosperity, they'd lost sight of what truly mattered: balance.

Then, I saw something beautiful. An elderly man stood up, leaning on his walker. His younger brother, only slightly younger, stood beside him. Together, they walked to the doctor's cabin, helping each other.

Their faces showed gratitude and love. I felt tears in my eyes. This was what family was about.

In that moment, I realized that taking care of each other wasn't just a nice thing to do; it was our responsibility.