Parsa, Oct. 27 -- After facing successive disasters--a drought followed by flooding and inundation within three months this year--devotees in the southern plains of Nepal have been praying for an end to calamities as they observe 'Chhath', the festival of benediction of the Sun.

Arsiya Devi began preparations for Chhath Puja at her mud-thatched home in the southern plains of Nepal, arranging all the essentials to offer to the setting Sun and Chhathi Maiya. Apart from praying for her family's well-being and prosperity, this year her prayers are focused on seeking relief from the disasters that have struck the region in recent months.

In July, the Madhesh region of Nepal suffered a severe drought during the monsoon season, followed by hea...