From the archive record
A serene and devotional scene unfolds at the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi during the sacred festival of Chhath Puja. The sandy riverbank becomes a place of worship as devotees gather to offer prayers to Surya, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings. In the foreground, a man dressed in simple white attire stands near the water with his hands folded in prayer, embodying the discipline and purity associated with this ritual. Nearby, groups of devotees assemble under a large orange and white tent, which provides shelter and serves as a focal point for community participation. Carefully arranged along the water’s edge are traditional bamboo trays, known as soop, filled with offerings such as fresh fruits, sugarcane, and homemade delicacies. These offerings are an essential part of