The Chhath Puja Samithi, supported by the Bihar Jharkhand Samaj of Western Australia, brought together the Indian diaspora in Perth with deep devotion and cultural pride to celebrate Chhath Puja at the serene riverbank of Burswood.
The atmosphere was filled with spiritual energy as devotees offered prayers to the Sun God, Surya Dev, and Chhathi Maiya, standing knee-deep in the river and singing traditional hymns.
This year marked a milestone for the community — for the first time, over 100 devotees gathered at the riverbank to perform the rituals, reflecting the growing strength and unity of Perth’s Indian community. Similar celebrations were held across Southern River, Piara Waters, and Willetton, each bringing together dozens of families to honour this sacred tradition from Bihar.
Chhath Puja, one of Hinduism’s most ancient festivals, is a four-day celebration dedicated to expressing gratitude to the Sun God, the ultimate source of life and energy.
The rituals began with Nahay Khay, symbolising purification of body and soul, followed by Kharna, where devotees fast without water all day and break it at night with kheer and roti before beginning their 36-hour-long fast.
On the third day, Sandhya Arghya, families and devotees offered lamps, fruits, and thekua (traditional prasad) to the setting sun in a breathtaking scene along the riverside.
The final day, Usha Arghya, began before dawn at 5 a.m., as devotees offered prayers to the rising sun and broke their fast by drinking water mixed with sugar and lemon, accompanied by thekua — marking the completion of a 36-hour waterless fast.
Women led much of the observance, their resilience and devotion reflecting the spirit of the festival. Yet, men and children also participated, creating an atmosphere of inclusion and shared faith.
Chhath Puja’s eco-friendly traditions and reverence for nature were on full display, with devotees using natural materials like bamboo baskets, clay lamps, and fresh produce for offerings. The riverbanks of Burswood resonated with folk songs, bhajans, and the fragrance of incense, transporting many to memories of home in Bihar and Jharkhand.
Across Perth, families described the experience as a “home away from home,” saying the celebration reminded them of their roots and the importance of unity in the Indian diaspora.
This year’s event, organised by local community volunteers, not only showcased the spiritual strength of the Bihari and Indian communities in Western Australia but also stood as a shining example of cultural continuity and harmony.
As the rising sun lit up the Perth skyline on the final day, devotees concluded their prayers with folded hands — symbolising gratitude, endurance, and the eternal connection between humanity and nature.
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