Patna/New Delhi — Millions of devotees gathered along riverbanks and ponds across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi to offer prayers to the setting sun as Chhath Puja festivities began.
Several states declared public holidays for schools and offices to facilitate the four-day festival. Authorities have stepped up security and cleanliness drives around ghats. The Delhi government has also deployed lifeguards and medical staff at major water bodies.
