In PIX: Chhath celebrations pass off peacefully in Mumbai

Lakhs of devotees converged at Juhu beach in suburban Mumbai to offer prayers to the Sun God as part of the Chhath Puja festivities which began on Tuesday.

Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam, who organised the festivities under the aegis of 'Bihari Front Organisation' said the festival was a time to pray and seek blessings of the Sun God.

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A music programme was organised after the prayers were offered during sun set.

Devotees will observe fast till sunrise on Wednesday as part of the rituals.

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Actor Manoj Bajpai, actress Neetu Chandra, Govinda, Sunil Shetty, Manoj Tiwari were prominent among the celebrities who took part in the festivities.

In the wake of Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leaders locking horns with Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam following his statement concerning north Indians, a heavy security was deployed at the venue and across the city.

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The state reserve police force (SRPF), tear gas units, special branch policemen in plainclothes and other security agencies were roped in to prevent any untoward incident.

Chhath festival is dedicated to Sun God and rituals are performed in order to thank the deity for sustaining life on earth and to request the granting of certain wishes.

The rituals of the festival are rigorous and are generally observed over a period of four days.