Amid the golden hues of dawn and dusk, the gentle waters of Newport Dunes carry the echoes of devotion from the sacred rivers of Bihar and Jharkhand. Each year, the BJ Bandhu (Bihar Jharkhand Bandhu Association) family gathers here to celebrate Chhath Puja — a festival that transcends borders and unites faith, nature, and community.

Chhath Puja is more than a ritual; it is a divine connection between the devotee and the Sun God, between faith and nature. Devotees observe purity, fasting, and offer arghya — sacred prayers to the setting and rising sun — expressing gratitude for life, energy, and prosperity. The calm lagoon at Newport Dunes becomes a spiritual reflection of the holy Ganga, as women in vibrant saris and families stand together in prayer.

BJ Bandhu is a warm and vibrant community of families and friends with roots in Bihar and Jharkhand, now proudly calling Southern California home. Founded on the belief that traditions are stronger when celebrated together, BJ Bandhu has become a cultural family where everyone — whether Bihari by birth, heart, or friendship — is welcome.

From the soulful devotion of Chhath Puja at Newport Dunes to the joyful colors of Holi, the divine energy of Durga Puja, the warmth of Makar Sankranti, the blessings of Hanuman Jayanti, and the sparkling lights of Diwali, each festival becomes a bridge between our past and our present. These are not just events — they are moments of belonging, love, and pride.

Beyond celebrations, BJ Bandhu stands for friendship, support, and service — helping one another in times of need and nurturing cultural pride across generations. With every diya we light and every song we sing, we celebrate not just our heritage but the unity that defines us.