Chhath Festival Begins: Understanding the Physiological Effects of Fasting

Kathmandu. The sixth day of Diwali is celebrated as the great festival of Chhath. This year, the Chhath Puja begins with 'Nahay-Khay' from Friday.

Chhath is a symbol of faith, devotion, and difficult penance. During this period, devotees observe a 'Nirjala' fast without food and water for about 36 hours. This difficult fast, which begins after Kharana, concludes after offering Arghya to the rising sun.