CHANDIGARH: The city is set to witness a new chapter in the celebration of Chhath Mahaparv this year. For the first time, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh (MCC) will make extensive special arrangements for Chhath Puja at approximately 14 to 15 different locations across the city.
Taking this major initiative forward, the Finance and Contract Committee (F&CC) has officially approved a budget allocation of ₹50 lakh to ensure top-tier facilities for devotees.
Budget Enhanced to Meet Devotee Needs
Initially, a supplementary agenda proposing an expenditure of ₹35.27 lakh was prepared by the Municipal Corporation. However, considering the rapidly growing number of devotees, the pressing need for dedicated Chhath Ghats in various residential areas, and the importance of providing better public facilities, Mayor Saurabh Joshi personally moved a proposal during the F&CC meeting to enhance the budget to ₹50 lakh.
The other members of the Committee unanimously accepted and supported the Mayor’s proposal. The enhanced allocation—sanctioning an additional ₹14.73 lakh over the originally proposed amount—was duly approved through a formal resolution.
“Chhath Mahaparv is not merely a festival; it symbolises the unwavering faith, rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted emotions of millions of families belonging to Purvanchal and Mithilanchal,” Mayor Joshi said. “Our priority is to provide clean, safe and well-equipped Chhath Ghats close to devotees’ homes wherever feasible.”
Extensive Preparations and Cultural Celebrations
Scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2026, the Chhath Mahaparv will see special MCC arrangements at key identified locations, including:
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The pond in the Green Belt at Indira Colony, Manimajra
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Shivalik Garden
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Sunder Nagar in Mauli Jagran
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Several other proposed sites across Chandigarh
The comprehensive arrangements will include the construction of temporary Chhath Ghats wherever required, seamless water-filling facilities, intensive sanitation drives, park repairs, and painting. Furthermore, the MCC will install electrical and decorative lighting, high-quality tents, and sound systems.
Adding a festive and cultural dimension, the Corporation has also proposed cultural programs featuring local artists to promote and celebrate the rich folk traditions of the Purvanchal region.
Community Expresses Gratitude
The Tricity Mithila Association has expressed profound gratitude to Mayor Saurabh Joshi for increasing the preparation budget. The Association described the civic initiative as a “significant gift” to the thousands of families from Purvanchal and Mithilanchal who have made Chandigarh their home, noting that the decision reflects a deep respect for the community’s religious faith and cultural identity.
“The true identity of Chandigarh lies not only in its beauty but also in its cultural diversity, social harmony and spirit of brotherhood,” Mayor Joshi added, directing civic officials to complete all venue preparations well in advance with strict adherence to safety and quality.
