Chhath: Worshipping the Sun and Nurturing Nature – Published by Rupa Publications India

Immerse yourself in the vibrant, sacred world of Chhath Puja—an ancient festival that beautifully blends profound spiritual devotion with the humble simplicity of rural folklife. Published by Rupa Publications India, Chhath: Worshipping the Sun and Nurturing Nature by Ekisha Singh offers a captivating, deeply thoughtful exploration into the heart of one of India’s most physically demanding and ecologically conscious celebrations.Unlike many religious festivals centered inside temples, Chhath Puja takes place entirely under the open sky on the banks of rivers and water bodies. This book delves into how devotion to the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya intertwines seamlessly with a deep, elemental reverence for nature itself. Singh vividly captures the colorful rituals, rigorous fasting practices, and the deep-rooted community beliefs that define this festival, which is celebrated with immense fervor across northern and eastern IndiaGoing beyond a simple chronicle of traditions, the narrative highlights the evolving contemporary significance of Chhath across generations. It explores how this ancient ritual functions as an innate, organic template for environmental preservation, zero-waste practices, and cosmic harmony. Written with an engaging, welcoming voice, each page uncovers how the essence of Chhath infuses joy, serenity, and positive energy into the lives of its devotees, binding them closer to the divine and to the eternal, nurturing rhythms of our planetPerfect for cultural enthusiasts, students of religion, and readers eager to discover the spiritual heart of Indian folklore, this book covers: