Following Diwali, preparations for the Chhath festival are underway across the country. This four-day festival of devotion and discipline will be observed from October 25 to October 28 this year. Chhath Puja is celebrated with great fervour, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal.

A significant ritual during Chhath is the 36-hour nirjala (waterless) fast observed by women, dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya .

This demanding fast, involving complete abstinence from both food and water, is seen as an act of deep devotion. However, medical experts warn that while fasting can offer certain health benefits, a waterless fast of this duration may also pose health risks.

Dr Sonia Rawat, Director of the Preventive Health and Wellness Department

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