Washington, D.C., USA — The ancient Hindu festival of Chhath Puja was celebrated with deep faith, devotion, and community spirit at the residence of ANTA (Association of Nepali Teraians in America) President Mohan Kumar Yadav, marking one of the most spiritually significant observances for devotees of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
This year’s celebrations began with Kharna, the second day of the four-day Chhath festival, where devotees observe a day-long fast and offer prayers at sunset to express gratitude to nature for sustaining life. The atmosphere at Yadav’s residence in Washington, D.C., was filled with chants, devotion, and the aroma of traditional prasad, as community members gathered to offer arghya to the setting sun.
The event continues on Monday, October 27 (3–6 PM) and Tuesday, October 28 (5–7 AM) at NECC, 11650 Snowden Farm Parkway, Germantown, Maryland, where hundreds are expected to gather along the riverside for the grand sunrise and sunset rituals.
Chhath Puja, traditionally celebrated in Nepal, India, and among diaspora communities worldwide, is a festival that honors the Sun God (Surya) and his consort Usha. It symbolizes purity, gratitude, and the balance between human life and nature. Unlike many other festivals, Chhath is marked by simplicity, discipline, and environmental consciousness — devotees use natural offerings like fruits, sugarcane, and the traditional Thekuwa sweets, avoiding any artificial or processed materials.
“This festival connects us with our roots and reminds us of the harmony between human beings and nature,” said Mohan Kumar Yadav, who has led several successful cultural celebrations through ANTA. “Celebrating Chhath in America shows how our traditions continue to thrive across generations and continents.” The Association of Nepali Teraians in America has been instrumental in promoting Nepali culture and values among the diaspora community across the United States. Events like this not only preserve heritage but also foster unity and spirituality in a multicultural setting. For more details, visit www.anta-terai.org. #ChhathPuja #WashingtonDC #ANTAUSA
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