Indian communities in Mauritius and Australia came together in radiant celebration for Chhath Puja 2025, transforming beaches and riverbanks into vibrant sanctuaries of devotion. The four-day festival, traditionally observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, honors the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya through rituals that symbolize gratitude, purity, and renewal. This year, the diaspora infused the sacred observance with cultural pride and unity, bridging continents through shared heritage and spiritual connection.
In Mauritius, the shores of Port Louis, Flic en Flac, and Rivière Noire glowed with the light of countless diyas as devotees offered Sandhya Arghya, prayers to the setting sun, accompanied by traditional songs and offerings of fruits and sweets. The Swastikam Foundation organized the event, which drew large crowds and featured the presence of dignitaries including Mauritian President Dharambeer Gokhool and Indian High Commissioner Anurag Srivastava. Their attendance highlighted the festival’s role not only as a religious occasion but also as a celebration of cultural diplomacy and community solidarity.
Across Australia, cities like Melbourne saw riverbanks come alive with similar energy. Families dressed in traditional attire gathered to perform rituals, sing devotional songs, and share festive meals. The celebrations reflected the enduring connection of Indian expatriates to their roots, even as they embraced life in new lands. Elders passed down customs to younger generations, reinforcing the values of devotion, discipline, and gratitude that define Chhath Puja.
The global spread of Chhath Puja underscores the resilience of cultural traditions and their power to foster belonging across borders. Whether on the shores of the Indian Ocean or the rivers of Australia, the festival continues to unite communities in reverence and joy. This year’s celebrations were a vivid testament to how rituals rooted in nature and faith transcend geography, creating shared moments of light, hope, and togetherness.