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Chhath Puja, the festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his consort, Chhathi Maiya, will be celebrated throughout the nation for four days, commencing from October 25. On this occasion, nearly 150 million people are expected to take part in the religious ritual all over the country.

The festival, characterised by the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya through rigorous rituals of fasting and offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, stands for purity, cleanliness, self-restraint and discipline in the Indian culture.

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) predicts that the total trade across the country on Chhath Puja this year will be around Rs 38,000 crore, indicating an increase from Rs 31,000 crore last year and Rs 27,000 crore in 2023.

Traders' body CAIT also expects business worth over Rs 6,000 crore in Delhi alone for Chhath Puja this year. Additionally, Delhi has made special arrangements for Chhath Puja this year, in which around 1500 ghats have been set up by the Delhi Government.

As per Praveen Khandelwal, the National General Secretary of CAIT as well as the MP from Chandni Chowk, "Chhath Puja is not just a religious festival, but an integral part of Indian culture, symbolising social unity and dedication. This festival also promotes business and directly benefits local producers, which reinforces Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to being vocal for local and self-reliant India."

He noted that local artisans and craftsmen manufacture most of the items used in Chhath Puja, which in turn provides new job opportunities and promotes the cottage industry of the country.

Khandelwal said that Chhath Puja is one of the most ancient and scientific traditions of Indian culture, which reflects the deep connection between nature and humans.

“Chhath Puja is not just a religious belief, but it is a festival of cleanliness, environmental protection, self-restraint and social unity. On this festival, the traders of the country are strengthening the campaign of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Swavalambhi Bharat' by promoting the sale of swadeshi products," he said.

He mentioned that there is great enthusiasm in the markets all over India, including Delhi, during Chhath Puja, and the festival not only represents a strong faith but also communicates the message of the economic and cultural integration of India.