Key Highlights
- Devotees in Hyderabad stood patiently for prayers despite cloudy skies on the last day of Chhath Puja.
- The ritual dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and his consort Ushas symbolizes gratitude for sustaining life on earth.
- Lakhs of devotees gathered at major water bodies including Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad to mark Usha Arghya.
- Prayers commenced as early as 4 a.m. at the city’s main Chhath ghats, with participants hailing from various states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Devotion Prevails Despite Clouds in Hyderabad
Hyderabad, the bustling capital of Telangana, witnessed an overwhelming display of devotion on Tuesday as lakhs of worshippers gathered along its water bodies to mark Usha Arghya, the final day of Chhath Puja. The festival, known for its spiritual significance and cultural heritage, saw participants braving early morning chill under overcast skies, offering prayers to the rising sun with unwavering faith.
Despite the cloudy forecast that delayed the sunrise, devotees in Hyderabad stood firm, their determination unshaken by the gloomy conditions. This year’s Chhath Puja took place on October 28, 2025, and marked the culmination of a four-day festival dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and his consort Ushas. The ritual is a symbol of gratitude for sustaining life on earth and involves fasting, rituals, and offerings made at dawn and dusk.
Massive Gathering in Hussain Sagar Lake
The city’s major Chhath ghats were filled with devotees as early as 4 a.m., reflecting the immense enthusiasm among participants. Among those present were worshippers from neighboring states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The Hussain Sagar Lake, a significant landmark in Hyderabad, became a sea of faith with hundreds of people lining its banks to witness the sunrise.
Local residents shared their experiences, expressing gratitude for the spiritual cleanse that Chhath Puja brings. “We believe that offering prayers at dawn will not only bless us but also help us maintain harmony and balance in our lives,” said Sharda Sinha, a devotee from Hyderabad. Her words echoed those of many others who participated in this ancient tradition.
Challenges Amid Devotion
The early morning prayers required participants to wake up well before dawn, often at 4 a.m., to prepare and offer their baskets of fruits (soop) and other offerings. The cloudy skies posed an additional challenge by delaying the sunrise, which is central to the Chhath Puja rituals.
However, the devotion displayed by these worshippers was evident despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions. “The clouds might have delayed our prayers, but they couldn’t dim the zeal and dedication of those participating in this sacred festival,” observed Siddharth Kumar Singh, a journalist covering the event.
A Festival of Faith
The Chhath Puja festival is celebrated across India with varying rituals, but its essence remains unchanged. The last day, Usha Arghya, sees devotees making offerings to the rising sun as a sign of gratitude and respect for nature and life. This year’s event in Hyderabad not only highlighted the resilience of devotion but also showcased the rich cultural tapestry that binds communities together through shared religious practices.
As the sun finally rose over Hussain Sagar Lake, casting its golden light on the gathered devotees, it marked the end of a meaningful and spiritually enriching festival. The early morning prayers and rituals symbolized more than just a day of worship; they represented a collective effort to preserve age-old traditions while fostering unity and harmony among diverse communities.
