Yamuna Chhath, also celebrated as Yamuna Jayanti, holds a special place in the hearts of Yamunanagar residents. It marks the day the Goddess Yamuna descended to Earth, and in a city whose identity is inseparable from the river, the celebration is nothing short of majestic.
The Spiritual Significance
- The Descent of the Goddess: Celebrated on the Shukla Paksha Sashti of the Chaitra month, it honors Yamuna, the daughter of Surya (the Sun God) and the sister of Yama (the God of Death).
- A Bath of Purification: It is a local belief that a holy dip in the river or the Western Yamuna Canal on this day protects devotees from the fear of death and purifies the soul.
Highlights of the Celebration
- Maha Aarti: As evening falls, the major ghats—especially near the Hathnikund Barrage and the local canal bridges—become stages for grand musical aarti ceremonies.
- Deep Dan (Offering of Lamps): The most breathtaking sight is the floating of thousands of earthen lamps (diyas) on the water. In 2026, local eco-groups have promoted the use of flour-based diyas to keep the river pollution-free.
- Chhappan Bhog: At the Yamuna temples in the Twin Cities, 56 types of delicacies (Chhappan Bhog) are offered to the Goddess and later distributed as Prasad to the gathered crowds.