Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja: The Grand Festival Dedicated to the Sun God

Chhath Puja is one of the most revered Hindu festivals, primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. It is dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. This ancient Vedic festival involves rigorous rituals, including fasting, holy dips in rivers, and offering prayers to the setting and rising sun. Let’s delve deeper into the significance, rituals, and history of Chhath Puja.

Chhath Puja is a festival of faith, devotion, and discipline. Unlike other Hindu festivals, it is not dedicated to any idol but instead focuses on the worship of the Sun God. Devotees express their gratitude for life, health, and prosperity.

History and Origin of Chhath Puja

The festival dates back to ancient Vedic times when rishis (sages) performed Chhath rituals to attain energy from the sun’s rays. It is also believed that Draupadi and the Pandavas from the Mahabharata performed Chhath Puja to regain their lost kingdom.

Significance of Chhath Puja

The Sun God is considered the ultimate source of energy and sustenance for life on Earth. Worshiping Surya Dev ensures good health, longevity, and prosperity.

When is Chhath Puja Celebrated?

Chhath Puja falls on the sixth day of the Kartik month (October-November) in the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated six days after Diwali.

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The Four-Day Celebration

Day 1: Nahay Khay

• Devotees take a dip in the holy river and prepare a pure vegetarian meal.
• The fasting begins, and only one meal is consumed.

Day 2: Lohanda or Kharna

• Devotees observe a strict fast without water until the evening.
• The fast is broken with a special prasad of gur ki kheer, roti, and fruits.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya

• Devotees visit rivers or ponds to offer Arghya (prayers) to the setting sun.
• Women observe a 36-hour waterless fast.

Day 4: Usha Arghya

• The final ritual is performed at sunrise, offering prayers to the rising sun.
• The fast is broken, marking the conclusion of the festival.

Chhath Puja Rituals and Traditions

• Bathing in sacred rivers like the Ganga.
• Standing in water for long hours during prayers.
• Offering prasad in bamboo baskets.
• Chanting traditional Chhath songs.

Foods and Prasad of Chhath Puja

• Thekua (sweet wheat flour cookies).
• Rice laddoo and jaggery-based sweets.
• Seasonal fruits like sugarcane, coconut, and banana.

Dress Code for Devotees

• Women wear yellow or orange sarees.
• Men wear dhoti-kurta.
• New, unstitched, and traditional attire is preferred.

Chhath Puja Celebrations Across India

• Bihar & Jharkhand: Grandest celebrations with lakhs of devotees.
• Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi and Prayagraj witness massive gatherings.
• Delhi & Mumbai: Chhath Puja is gaining popularity among migrant communities.

Chhath Puja in Nepal

• It is a major festival in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
• Devotees gather at the Bagmati River and other holy water bodies.

Spiritual and Health Benefits of Chhath Puja

• Sun exposure boosts Vitamin D levels.
• Fasting detoxifies the body.
• Mental peace and positive energy from meditation and prayers.

Environmental Significance of Chhath Puja

• Encourages river conservation and cleanliness.
• Use of eco-friendly bamboo baskets instead of plastic.

Popular Chhath Puja Songs and Music

• “Kelwa ke paat par” – The most famous Chhath song.
• Devotional Bhojpuri songs create a spiritual atmosphere.

Myths and Legends of Chhath Puja

• Legend of Surya Putra Karna: Karna, the son of Surya Dev, was a devoted worshiper of the Sun.
• Draupadi’s Chhath Puja: She observed the festival to bring prosperity to the Pandavas.

Chhath Puja is a festival of faith, devotion, and discipline. It not only strengthens spiritual beliefs but also promotes environmental consciousness and health benefits. The festival continues to spread its significance across the world as more people understand its profound impact.

FAQs About Chhath Puja

1. Why is Chhath Puja celebrated?
Chhath Puja is celebrated to honor the Sun God for health, prosperity, and longevity.

2. Can non-Hindus participate in Chhath Puja?
Yes, Chhath Puja is open to all who wish to seek blessings from the Sun God.

3. What is the significance of fasting during Chhath Puja?
Fasting detoxifies the body and strengthens devotion and self-discipline.

4. What is the main prasad of Chhath Puja?
Thekua, jaggery-based sweets, and rice laddoos are the main offerings.

5. Is Chhath Puja only celebrated in India?
No, it is also widely celebrated in Nepal, Mauritius, and among Indian diaspora communities worldwide.