PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram releases book on Chhath Mahaparv at Pune civic headquarters

Pune, November 13, 2026: A book on the religious, historical and cultural significance of the Chhath Mahaparv was released on Friday, November 13, at the headquarters of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Several dignitaries were present at the event.

The book is titled "Chhath Mahaparv: Lokastha Se Vaishvik Pehchan Tak - Bharatiya Sanskriti Ka Ek Anupam Gaurav". It is written by Anshu Pathak, a resident of Kalisthan in Shivajinagar, Darbhanga, Bihar. The book is based on the idea of "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" and presents India's cultural diversity and national unity.

The book was released by PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, an IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre who hails from Bihar.

On the occasion, Ram said, "This book promotes cultural dialogue between Maharashtra and Bihar, and also carries the message of India's cultural diversity, mutual respect and national unity."

The book discusses several aspects of Chhath Mahaparv: religious, mythological, historical and social. It also underlines the importance of sun worship, environmental protection and the social harmony associated with the festival.

Besides the main Chhath festival, the book introduces readers to related traditions. These include Chaiti Chhath, Kartiki Chhath, Lolark Shashthi and Lalhi Chhath. Through these traditions, the book seeks to present Chhath beyond its popular celebration, with a wider cultural and religious significance.

Mrityunjay Kumar, Sanjeev Kumar, Omprakash Kumar and Ramniwas Singh were among those present at the release.

The foreword to the book is written by journalist Ameen Khan. He stresses that India's cultural diversity, religious tolerance and respect for all faiths are the foundation of national unity.

In the foreword, Khan praises the author's thinking and style of expression, particularly the message that respecting another faith does not require giving up one's own. In his view, such respect is the mark of an inclusive, liberal and mature society.

The book presents Chhath Mahaparv not merely as a religious festival but also as an expression of India's cultural heritage, environmental awareness and the spirit of social coexistence.