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How are Holi and Chhatt celebrated in Jharkhand?

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Map highlighting the state of Jharkhand in eastern India, shaded in orange with its capital, Ranchi, marked. Surrounding countries including Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka are also shown for regional context. — Jharkhand Jharkhand, India.

In Jharkhand, Holi and Chhath are significant annual celebrations that bridge tribal and nontribal communities.1

Holi

Holi is celebrated in February or March as a colourful fertility festival. While specific regional variations are common across India, the festival generally serves as a joyous occasion for communities to come together.12

Chhath

Chhath is a rigorous four-day solar festival dedicated to the Sun god, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, usually observed in October or November. The festival is characterized by:13
* Fasting: Devotees, often women, observe a 36-hour nirjala vrat (a fast without food or water).3
* Rituals: Participants perform bathing rituals in rivers or ponds and offer arghya (water libations) to the setting and rising Sun.3
* Offerings: Devotees prepare satvik (pure) meals and offerings like thekua (a sweet wheat biscuit) in earthen or copper vessels.3
* Community: The festival is noted for its environmentally rooted practices, utilizing biodegradable materials such as flowers, fruits, and clay lamps.3