In pictures: Chhath Puja preparations underway at Gaurighat

Kathmandu, November 5 — Preparations for Chhath Puja are underway in Gaurighat, Kathmandu. An attractive Chhath Ghat (ritual site) is being constructed along the banks of the Bagmati River beneath the Guhyeshwari Temple.

According to the Guhyeshwari Gaurighat Chhath Puja Committee, the construction of the Chhath Ghat, which stretches from Guhyeshwari to Gaurighat, is nearing completion, with around 80% of the work already finished.

For those observing the Chhath fast, the ritual requires devotees to enter the Chhath Ghat, where they offer prayers and arghya (offerings) to the setting sun. As part of the fasting procedure, devotees refrain from eating garlic, onions, and other static foods, maintaining strict purity from the Krishna Pratipada (first day of the dark phase of the moon).

On the day of Kartik Shukla Panchami, fasting individuals consume Kharna, a sweet dish made from sugar and ghee as part of their observance. This is considered an important ritual of Chhath Puja. On the main day of the festival, Kartik Shukla Shashti, devotees offer arghya to the setting sun in the evening. This year, the main day of Chhath Puja falls on Thursday.

Photographs taken during the night and morning rituals show the community's participation in the sacred observances.