Vasai-Virar: The municipal administration in Vasai-Virar is ready for Chhath Puja, with plans for artificial ponds in place. However, in a meeting on Friday, permission was granted for devotees to offer 'arghya' (offerings to the Sun God) in natural ponds, but only under certain conditions.
Festival Dates and Traditional Practices
Chhath Puja is scheduled for October 27 and 28. Traditionally, the festival involves performing prayers at beaches, lakes, and riverbanks during sunrise and sunset. To prevent pollution of natural water sources, the municipal corporation had initially planned only artificial ponds.
Permission Granted After Demands
However, after demands from MLAs Sneha Dubey-Pandit and Rajan Naik, along with social workers, for permission to celebrate the puja traditionally, a meeting was held.
Strict Guidelines for Natural Ponds
Municipal Commissioner Manojkumar Suryavanshi confirmed that based on court guidelines, devotees will be allowed entry into natural ponds only to offer arghya. This permission comes with a strict condition: no offerings like garlands or oil lamps are to be left in the water. Municipal corporation will strictly look towards this actions.
Meeting and Safety Measures
The meeting, chaired by Municipal Commissioner Manojkumar Suryavanshi, was attended by police officials and leaders of various political parties. The officials reiterated that court directives must be followed for the celebration of Chhath Puja.
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The municipal administration will make arrangements for the festival, including the construction of artificial ponds. Natural ponds are permitted for offering arghya, but under strict conditions to protect water bodies from pollution. This decision comes as a relief to devotees who wished to celebrate Chhath Puja in a traditional manner at natural water sources.
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