Chandigarh, November 2:- In an overwhelming expression of gratitude and appreciation, hundreds of members of the Mithilanchal and Purvanchal communities gathered at the Mayor’s Office to felicitate Chandigarh Mayor Sh. Saurabh Joshi for his initiative to facilitate Chhath Mahaparv celebrations at approximately 15–20 locations across Chandigarh, backed by an approved budget of ₹50 lakh.

The Mithilanchal Chhath Puja Samiti honoured Mayor Saurabh Joshi with the prestigious ‘Mithilanchal Samman’, recognising his efforts to address the long-standing aspirations and religious sentiments of thousands of Mithilanchal and Purvanchal families residing in the city.

The Samiti representatives described the decision as a historic first for Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, stating that never before had Chhath Mahaparv received such widespread civic attention, special priority and financial support across the city.

The representatives particularly appreciated Mayor Joshi's personal initiative in enhancing the originally proposed budget from ₹35.27 lakh to ₹50 lakh and securing its approval through the Finance and Contract Committee (F&CC).

They said the initiative would provide immense relief to thousands of devotees, particularly fasting mothers and sisters, elderly citizens and families who previously had to travel considerable distances to offer Arghya to the Sun God and perform traditional Chhath rituals.

The proposed arrangements will cover Maloya, Dhanas, Mauli Jagran, Ram Darbar, Hallo Majra, Behlana, Burail, Kajheri, Indira Colony Manimajra, Kachchi Colony Dhanas, Dadua, Khuda Lahora and other localities, bringing Chhath Puja facilities closer to residential neighbourhoods.

Addressing the gathering, Mayor Saurabh Joshi said:“Chhath Mahaparv is not merely a festival; it symbolises the unwavering faith, sacrifice and devotion of our mothers and sisters. My endeavour is to ensure that no mother, sister or elderly devotee has to travel long distances to perform these sacred rituals. Every community residing in Chandigarh is part of our extended family. Respecting their faith, culture and traditions is not a favour but our responsibility.”

The Mayor further emphasised that Chandigarh's true identity lies not only in its beauty and modern infrastructure but also in the respect and recognition it extends to the diverse cultures, traditions and religious sentiments of its residents.

He assured the gathering that the Municipal Corporation would make every possible effort to provide essential civic facilities, including cleanliness, lighting, safety and other necessary arrangements at the identified Chhath Puja locations.

The Samiti representatives highlighted the significant contribution of the Mithilanchal and Purvanchal communities to Chandigarh's development, construction, commerce and social fabric.

“For the first time, we feel that our traditions and the sentiments of thousands of families have received such special attention from the Municipal Corporation. This is not merely about a ₹50-lakh budget; it is about recognition, dignity and respect for our faith,” the representatives expressed.

They further stated that the presence of hundreds of community members at the Mayor's Office reflected their collective happiness and appreciation for the initiative.

The Samiti expressed confidence that this decision would lay a strong foundation for more accessible and well-organised Chhath Mahaparv celebrations in Chandigarh in the coming years.

The gathering concluded with hundreds of community members felicitating Mayor Saurabh Joshi, expressing their heartfelt gratitude and raising chants of “Chhathi Maiya Ki Jai!”