Chhath Puja Celebration Information

Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun god, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, who is believed to be the sister of Surya.

This festival is particularly significant in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and in some regions of Nepal. Chhath Puja is observed on the sixth day of the Hindu month of Kartika (usually in October or November) and continues for four days.

Chhath-Puja Information

Here's an overview of the Chhath Puja celebration:

v Nahay Khay (Day 1): The festival begins with devotees taking a holy dip in rivers, ponds, or other water bodies. After bathing, they prepare a traditional meal known as "Kaddu Bhat" and eat it.

v Lohanda and Kharna (Day 2): Devotees observe a fast on this day, which lasts until the next evening. They prepare kheer (sweet rice porridge) and chapatis in the evening, offering them to the sun god during sunset. This process is known as Kharna.

v Sandhya Arghya (Day 3 - Evening): Devotees fast for the whole day and break their fast in the evening after offering Arghya (offering of water) to the setting sun. The rituals are performed on the banks of rivers or other water bodies.

v Usha Arghya (Day 4 - Morning): On the final day, devotees wake up before sunrise and go to the riverbank to offer Arghya to the rising sun. This marks the end of the Chhath Puja rituals.

The rituals are rigorous, and devotees, known as "Vratis," follow a strict discipline during the entire period of Chhath Puja. The festival is marked by deep devotion, family participation, and a connection with nature, as it involves the worship of the sun, water, and the Earth.

Chhath Puja is a time of joy and festivity, with communities coming together to celebrate. It is not only a religious observance but also a cultural event that reflects the rich heritage and traditions of the regions where it is celebrated.

 Significance:

v Sun Worship: Chhath Puja is primarily dedicated to the worship of the sun god, Surya. The sun is considered the source of life and energy, and by offering prayers to the sun, devotees seek blessings for the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of their family members.

v Cultural Heritage: Chhath Puja is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the regions where it is celebrated. The rituals and traditions associated with the festival have been passed down through generations, contributing to a sense of community and shared identity.

v Purity and Austerity: The rituals of Chhath Puja are marked by purity and austerity. Devotees maintain strict discipline, cleanliness, and perform the rituals with a sense of devotion and humility.

Rituals and Observances:

v Vratis (Devotees): Those who observe Chhath Puja are known as Vratis. They take a holy dip in the river, wear clean clothes, and maintain purity throughout the festival.

v Traditional Songs: Chhath Puja is accompanied by traditional folk songs dedicated to the sun god. These songs are an integral part of the celebrations and are sung during the various rituals.

v Prasad: The Prasad (offerings) prepared during Chhath Puja, such as thekua (a sweet dish), fruits, and other traditional items, are considered sacred. They are distributed among family members and friends after the rituals.

v Diyas and Lamps: The lighting of earthen lamps (diyas) is an essential part of Chhath Puja. Devotees light lamps during the evening and morning rituals, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

v Community Celebration: Chhath Puja is not only a family affair but also a community celebration. People come together to build temporary ghats (steps) on the riverbanks, and the entire community participates in the rituals and festivities.

Chhath Puja continues to be a cherished and vibrant festival that brings people together to express Gratitude to the sun god and celebrate the harmonious relationship between Humans and Nature.