Cheti Chand

Cheti Chand is an important festival celebrated as New Year's Day by Sindhi people all over the world. According to the the Hindu calendar, it is the second day of the month chaitra (i.e. a day after Ugadi and Gudi Padwa), known as Chet in the Sindhi language. Hence it is known as Chet-i-Chand. It is celebrated in honour in the birth of Ishtadeva Uderolal, popularly known as Jhulelal, the patron saint 

of the Sindhis. This day is considered to be very auspicious and therefore it is celebrated in a very grand manner.

The festival of Cheti Chand occurred on the 24^th of March this year. The day began with puja of Jhulelal in the Gurudwara which was followed by a traditional meal called “Langer” a term mostly used by North Indians. It is not only treated as lunch but is considered to be a “Prasad” that is first offered to deity and then consumed. “I love having the Langer there as it is not only with family but with so many other Sindhis present” was told by Rohit Bajaj

Continuing in the celebrations a mela is organised either on the same evening or the next day. It is a large gathering where Sindhis from all over come together with their families and friends to celebrate this great day. “Celebrating Cheti Chand is one big event for us as all the Sindhis meet here under the same roof, taking time out from their busy schedules” was told by Neha Lulla. Just like an exhibition there are different stalls put up where people display their collection of clothes, food, jewellery, hand crafted items, home accessories etc., to help raise funds that are used for charitable purposes. It also has cultural activities for children like dancing, singing, painting etc. Also for entertainment purpose discotheques, magic shows, tambola and different games are put up. Aakansha stated “I really have fun here and I like the arrangements.” All in all it’s a day where people come to celebrate with laughter, fun and entertainment. “I won a mobile phone while playing tambola” said Akash. Prize distribution happens after every event to encourage more and more participation.