Chhath Festival: A tradition of strengthening the local economy along with faith

Janakpur Dham – Chhath, the largest festival in the Mithila region, is being celebrated today. Not only is it the most significant religious festival, but it also holds substantial economic importance. The festival predominantly utilizes locally produced goods, thereby promoting the overall economy and encouraging local production.

Cultural scholars and economists note that most festivals celebrated in the Mithila region encourage the use of local products. During Chhath, agricultural products produced locally are used in the rituals. Items such as clay pots and bamboo products are employed, which not only promote local production but also aid in their commercialization.

Economist Dr. Bhogendra Jha remarked that until now, festivals have been associated solely with religion and spirituality. He emphasized that our ancestors were highly vigilant, and while we readily adopt foreign concepts like “Nation First,” we should recognize that the principles of economic self-reliance were embedded in our traditions.

Dr. Jha further explained that every festival in the Mithilanchal region, especially Chhath, is closely linked to nature. He pointed out that the caste system in our society—divided into Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra—was based on occupation. All classes of society find employment during the Chhath festival.

He also highlighted that no imported goods are used during Chhath. The rice, sugarcane, jaggery, oil, bamboo materials, and clay pots used in the rituals are all locally produced. Thus, Chhath not only promotes social unity but also conveys the message of an economically self-reliant society.

Cultural expert and President of the Madhes Pragya Pratishthan, Rambharos Kapadi, stated that the purity of the offerings during Chhath distinguishes it from other festivals. Unlike other festivals, Chhath involves meticulous cleaning, washing, drying, and storing of items like rice and wheat, which is a unique aspect of this festival.

Kapadi noted that the materials used in Chhath are based on agricultural products, allowing both the wealthy and the poor to participate in the festival. Unlike other religious rituals that may impose a heavy financial burden, Chhath remains accessible to all.

“Everyone offers ‘thakuwa’ made from wheat flour and ‘bhusba’ made from rice flour, with banana as the main offering. There is no extravagance. As a result, all devotees can equally worship the deity, which reflects our ancestors’ long-term vision,” he said.

The Chhath festival, which began on Saturday, will culminate today with the offering to the setting sun, and tomorrow, the festival will conclude with the offering to the rising sun.