Chhath Mahaparv celebrated with devotion in Edison, New Jersey

Edison, NJ, Oct 26: The Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) hosted a grand celebration of Chhath Mahaparv at Papaianni Park in Edison, where the Indian-American community gathered with devotion to offer prayers to the Sun God (Surya Dev) and Chhathi Maiya.

Around 40 Vratis (devotees) observed the sacred fast and performed Sandhya Arghya (evening offering), while over 700 community members joined in the rituals. The park came alive with devotional songs, glowing diyas, and offerings of Thekua and fruits, recreating the traditional atmosphere of the ghats of Bihar and Jharkhand.

A symbolic moment came when nine Vratis walked together carrying baskets of offerings on their heads, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of the festival. BJANA President Sanjeev Singh thanked volunteers for their dedication, saying the event “brought everyone together like one family.” Vice President Priti Kashyap added that the celebration “revived memories of our roots in Bihar and Jharkhand” and credited the support of Mayor Sam Joshi and the Township of Edison. Alok Kumar, Chairman of Bihar Foundation USA (East Coast Chapter), said, “When Sharda Sinha’s songs play during Chhath, it feels like being back on the ghats of Bihar and Jharkhand.” Children and youth actively participated, learning about the festival’s spiritual and ecological significance. The event beautifully captured the spirit of faith, unity, and nostalgia, bringing the essence of Bihar and Jharkhand to New Jersey.