KATHMANDU
The Chhath festival observed as a common cultural symbol of the Tarai is being celebrated as per religious tradition and much fanfare starting today.
The festival is dedicated to the sun God, with offerings made to the rising and setting sun. It is observed for four days, from Kartik Shukala Chaturthi to Kartik Shukla Saptami, as per the lunar calendar. It usually falls between mid-October and mid-November in the Gregorian calendar.
The Sun, considered the god of energy and of the life force, is worshiped during the Chhath festival to promote well-being, prosperity, and progress. Those observing the Chhath fasting take a bath in the morning and partake only a single meal today. T