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Bihar Chhath Puja Image
Chhath Puja Kab Hai
Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily in northern India, especially in states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and in parts of Nepal. This four-day festival is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and his wife Usha, symbolizing gratitude and reverence for nature’s energy source. The festival is marked by rigorous rituals, fasting, and prayers that honor Surya for sustaining life and bringing prosperity. In 2024, Chhath Puja will start on November 5 and conclude on November 8.
The festival holds deep religious importance, with devotees observing strict discipline, abstinence, and performing rituals with utmost devotion. It is believed that offering prayers during Chhath Puja brings blessings for health, longevity, and prosperity.
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is unique among Hindu festivals because it is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and does not involve idol worship. The Sun, considered the source of life and vitality, is worshipped for promoting health, prosperity, and well-being. Devotees believe that by offering prayers to Surya, they can attain purity, both internally and externally.
For centuries, Chhath Puja has been associated with purity and an unwavering commitment to discipline. The festival is also known for its eco-friendly nature as all rituals are performed in a natural setting, using natural elements. Devotees perform the rituals in rivers, ponds, and other water bodies, offering raw fruits, vegetables, and other natural items, emphasizing environmental respect.
The Mythological Origins of Chhath Puja
The origin of Chhath Puja can be traced back to Hindu mythology. It is said that during the time of the Mahabharata, Draupadi and the Pandavas performed Chhath Puja to overcome hardships and secure blessings for their prosperity. Another legend associates Chhath with Lord Rama and Sita, who are believed to have performed the rituals after their return from exile to Ayodhya. The festival symbolizes devotion, simplicity, and a deep connection with nature.
The Four-Day Rituals of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja spans over four days, each with its distinct set of rituals and significance.
1. Nahay Khay (Day 1) – November 5, 2024
The first day of Chhath Puja is known as Nahay Khay. Devotees begin the celebration by cleansing their homes and preparing a pure vegetarian meal, as the focus is on purity. They also bathe in a holy river or water body, symbolizing the cleansing of the body and soul. After this, they prepare a simple meal, usually made with rice, dal, and vegetables, which is offered to the Sun God before it is consumed.
2. Kharna (Day 2) – November 6, 2024
The second day, known as Kharna, is marked by a day-long fast. Devotees refrain from consuming even a drop of water throughout the day. In the evening, they prepare offerings that usually include kheer (a rice pudding made with jaggery and milk), chapatis, and bananas. After offering the food to the deity, devotees break their fast and consume the Prasad (sacred food). This meal signifies purity and is shared with family and friends.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Day 3) – November 7, 2024
The third day is the most significant day of Chhath Puja and is called Sandhya Arghya. Devotees observe a strict fast without food or water throughout the day. In the evening, they gather at a riverbank or water body to offer prayers to the setting sun. During this ritual, they hold a basket filled with offerings such as fruits, thekua (a traditional Chhath sweet), and other items made from wheat and jaggery. The setting sun is worshipped as it represents the end of negativity and hardships. Devotees sing folk songs and bhajans, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.
4. Usha Arghya (Day 4) – November 8, 2024
The last day of Chhath Puja is called Usha Arghya, where devotees offer prayers to the rising sun. After a night of fasting and prayer, devotees gather early in the morning to offer their last round of offerings to the Sun God. The rising sun is considered a symbol of new beginnings, positivity, and prosperity. After performing the final prayer, devotees break their fast, marking the end of Chhath Puja. They consume the prasad and distribute it among family members and neighbors as a symbol of sharing blessings.
Customs And Traditions Of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is known for its simplicity and strict adherence to rituals. There are no priests involved; instead, families perform the puja themselves, following a tradition passed down through generations. Devotees maintain high levels of cleanliness and purity during this time, refraining from wearing leather items or consuming meat, onions, and garlic.
A common sight during Chhath Puja is the use of bamboo baskets and handmade clay lamps. Thekua, a special sweet made with wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, is prepared as an offering and is considered the highlight of Chhath Prasad.
The fasting rituals, particularly the waterless fast, are rigorous, and only the most devoted undertake them. Chhath Puja is seen as a test of endurance, self-discipline, and faith, making it one of the most physically and spiritually intense festivals in Hinduism.
Environmental And Social Significance
Chhath Puja promotes ecological awareness and harmony with nature. The offerings made during the puja are biodegradable and do not harm the environment. The ritual of performing the puja at rivers and ponds is a reminder of the need to preserve water bodies. Additionally, Chhath Puja fosters a sense of community as people from all walks of life come together to participate in the celebration, breaking social barriers and fostering unity.
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