Sneha Wagh on Chhath Puja: Being part of the Chhath Puja celebrations in Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, I felt like I was truly participating in the festival for the first time

MUMBAI: Chhath Puja, a festival of devotion and gratitude to the sun, celebrates the deep bonds of family and nature. Sneha Wagh, now embodying the role of Goddess Chhathi Maiyya in Sun Neo's Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, is experiencing this beautiful tradition for the first time through her character.

Sharing how she learned about the festival through her new role, Sneha Wagh explained, “Playing Chhathi Maiyya in Sun Neo's Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya has been my first introduction to the deep meaning behind Chhath Puja. It’s a festival that stands for faith, strength, and thankfulness—a unique way to show gratitude to the sun, nature, and family. Experiencing it through my role has given me a sense of how this celebration brings families together, inspiring such heartfelt devotion and respect for the environment.”

She further added, “As a Maharashtrian, I never celebrated Chhath Puja growing up, and neither did my family. But being part of Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya changed that. Through this show, I am learning about its rituals, and during our recent Chhath Puja scenes, I witnessed the reverence and emotions tied to this festival. It was a new and heartfelt experience for me, which has left a lasting impact.”

When asked if she had any special memories of Chhath Puja from childhood, she said, “I don’t have any childhood memories of celebrating Chhath Puja, but the show has given me beautiful new ones. Being part of the Chhath Puja celebrations in Sun Neo's Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, I felt like I was truly participating in the festival for the first time. It was emotional and has given me a deep appreciation for this tradition.”

Sneha concluded, “One of the most beautiful traditions of Chhath Puja is when a mother keeps a fast for the well-being of her children. Her selfless dedication and the love she pours into preparing offerings are truly heartwarming.”

Sneha recently stepped into the shoes of Devoleena Bhattacharjee to play Sun Neo's show Chhathi Maiyya in Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, as Devoleena exited the show due to her pregnancy. Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, airing on Sun Neo at 7 PM, follows Vaishnavi, an orphan who draws strength and comfort from her unshakable faith in Chhathi Maiyya, who acts as a motherly figure in her life. The show features a talented ensemble cast, including Sara Khan, Jaya Bhattacharya, Brinda Dahal, and Ashish Dixit.