Melbourne is preparing for one of its most anticipated cultural gatherings as the Bihar Jharkhand Sabha of Melbourne (BJSM) hosts the annual Chhath Puja 2025 at Karkarook Park in Heatherton. The two-day festival will take place on 27 and 28 October, drawing an expected crowd of more than 1,000 devotees and visitors from across Victoria.
The celebrations will begin with the evening prayers, known as Sandhya Arghya, from 6 to 9 PM on 27 October, followed by the morning ritual, Usha Arghya, from 5 to 8 AM the next day.
Chhath Puja is one of the oldest Vedic festivals dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and Chhathi Maiyya. The rituals, which involve fasting, bathing in water, and offering prayers at sunrise and sunset, embody gratitude and harmony with nature. For Melbourne’s Indian community, the celebration has become more than a tradition—it has grown into a symbol of cultural connection and collective belonging.
“Chhath is not just a festival; it’s an emotion. It connects generations, reminding us of our roots, our gratitude, and our bond with nature,” said Aparna Kumar, President of BJSM.
For over two decades, BJSM has been at the heart of Melbourne’s Indian cultural life, organising festivals such as Holi and Diwali, as well as observances like Teej, Jitiya, and Vat Savitri Vrat. With more than 600 families involved, the organisation continues to nurture a strong sense of community among migrants from Bihar and Jharkhand and the wider Indian diaspora.
This year’s Chhath Puja will feature the presence of Consul General of India in Melbourne Dr Sushil Kumar, along with local councillors, Members of Parliament, and community leaders. Their participation reflects how deeply the festival has taken root within Australia’s multicultural ethos.
“Chhath’s essence—devotion to the Sun and reverence for nature—resonates deeply with Australian values of sustainability and community harmony,” said a BJSM committee spokesperson. “Our aim is to keep this tradition alive while making it inclusive and accessible for all.”
BJSM is inviting individuals, families, and businesses to support the free community event through donations and sponsorships. The organisers emphasise that every contribution helps preserve the spirit of Chhath for future generations, ensuring it remains a beacon of unity and cultural pride in Victoria.
Event Details:
- Venue: Karkarook Park, Heatherton, Melbourne
- Dates: 27–28 October 2025
- Timings: Sandhya Arghya (6–9 PM, 27 Oct), Usha Arghya (5–8 AM, 28 Oct)
- Entry: Free | All Are Welcome
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