BHOPAL : Bhojpuri Ekta Manch organised a symposium on ‘Chhath Mahaparv-Suryopasana’ here on Friday at the meeting hall of Swaraj Bhawan.
Addressing the programme, Prof Gyanendra Gautam, Head of Department of Sociology, Barkatullah University, said, “Chhath is a festival of discipline and dignity. On this day, we cleanse our hearts because we use bamboo-made articles like soop, baskets etc, which are made by members of scheduled caste and thus we forge harmonious relations with them. Also, it symbolises respect for women.
“It is not only associated with religion but also preservation of rivers-ponds and Ghats. It helps to enhance harmony and prosperity. Muslims too celebrate this festival,” Gautam added.
Director of MP Hindi Granth Akademi, Surendra Bihari Goswami said, “Where knowledge ends, science begins; and where science ends, spiritualism begins. Chhath is not only performed by women but a large number of men also join in celebrations of Chhath. The people who keep fast on chhath do not rest, they do their duty.”
“Nowadays Chhath is celebrated across the country and even abroad. It brings happiness in family as well as society,” said Anil Saumitra, a journalist.
“Many people seek fulfillment of their wishes from Sun God during this festival. Newly-wed women have a craze for this festival,” said President of Bhojpuri Sahitya Akademi, Naval Shukla.
A large number of city-based personalities including executive editor of Bhojpuriya Time Magazine Pankaj Kumar, Kunwar Prasad, OP Mishra and others were present.