Page 22 - Mann Ki Baat - English
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like sugarcane, sweet lime, and ‘Mann ki Baat’. At the ghats,
banana, as well as items like every section of society comes
cotton thread, areca nut, and together, creating a microcosm
turmeric. The food is prepared on of social unity. The preparation
traditional earthen ovens using of traditional offerings is a
mango wood, and only bronze community activity, fostering a
or clay vessels are used. The spirit of sharing and collective
strict vegetarian fare consumed responsibility. The sight of
during the fast includes leafy thousands of devotees, dressed
vegetables, pumpkin, and radish, in similar traditional attire and
prepared without salt, onions, or chanting ancient hymns in
garlic, maintaining a pure and unison, presents a powerful
sattvic quality. visual of social cohesion.
Beyond its spiritual and The role of women is central
ecological dimensions, Chhath to the festival. They undertake the
Puja is a powerful social demanding Nirjala Vrat, a fast
equaliser, cutting across barriers without water, for the longevity
of caste, class, and creed. The and prosperity of their families.
festival has been aptly described Their dedication is not merely
as a “confluence of devotion, a religious obligation, but a
affection, and tradition.” by the profound expression of affection
Prime Minister, Shri Narendra and sacrifice, reinforcing familial
Modi, in the 127th address of bonds and showcasing the
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