What Is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is an ancient Hindu festival predominantly observed in the Terai region of Nepal and in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It is a four-day observance dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, also known as Usha in the Vedas. The festival expresses gratitude to the Sun for sustaining life on Earth and seeks blessings for prosperity, well-being, and longevity.
The rituals of Chhath Puja are rigorous, involving fasting without water for 36 hours, holy bathing in sacred rivers or ponds, and offering prayers and specific foods to the setting and rising sun. Devotees, known as Vratis, perform these customs with great devotion and discipline, often travelling to riverbanks or other water bodies for the arghya (offerings).
The festival underscores themes of purity, discipline, and devotion to nature. It is considered one of the most environmentally conscious Hindu festivals, with a strong focus on cleanliness of surroundings and water sources. Community participation is a significant aspect, as families gather together to perform the rituals collectively.
History and Origins of Chhath Puja
The origins of Chhath Puja are deeply rooted in ancient Vedic traditions, dating back thousands of years. References to Sun worship can be found in the Rigveda, an ancient Hindu scripture, where the Sun God Surya is revered as a source of power, light, and life. Chhathi Maiya is often associated with Usha, the goddess of dawn, and a sister to Surya.
Several traditional narratives are linked to the festival’s commencement. One popular legend connects Chhath Puja to King Priyavrat, who, suffering from illness, was advised by a sage to perform Sun worship to overcome his ailments. Another narrative suggests that Lord Rama and Sita performed Surya Puja upon returning to Ayodhya after their exile, which is sometimes linked to the practices of Chhath. The epic Mahabharata also features the figure of Karna, the son of Surya, who is said to have regularly offered prayers to the Sun God by standing in water.
Historically, Chhath Puja has been primarily a regional festival, gaining widespread observance in the specified geographical areas due to migration and cultural exchange. Its unique set of rituals, focused entirely on the Sun and a specific deity, distinguishes it from other Hindu festivals. Over time, its cultural significance has grown, leading to its recognition as a major public holiday in several regions.
How Chhath Puja Is Celebrated
Chhath Puja is a four-day festival, with each day marked by distinct rituals and observances. The fast is generally observed by women, though some men also participate.
Day 1: Nahay Khay
This day marks the beginning of the festival. Devotees take a holy bath, typically in a river or pond, to purify themselves. After bathing, they prepare a single meal, usually rice, lentils, and pumpkin cooked in ghee, which is consumed before the rigorous fasting begins. This meal is intended to prepare the body and mind for the upcoming demanding rituals.
Day 2: Kharna (Lohanda)
On the second day, devotees observe a full day’s fast, which concludes in the evening after performing special puja. The main ritual involves preparing and consuming ‘kheer’ (rice pudding) with ‘roti’ (flatbread) or fruits. After this meal, a strict 36-hour fast without water begins, continuing until the dawn of the fourth day. This day is crucial for cleansing and spiritual preparation.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya
This is the most significant day of Chhath Puja. Vratis, along with their families, proceed to riverbanks, ponds, or other water bodies in the evening. They carry baskets filled with offerings, which include ‘thekua’ (a special sweet made from flour and jaggery), seasonal fruits, sweets, rice, and coconuts. Offerings are made to the setting sun by standing in the water, a ritual known as Sandhya Arghya. The atmosphere is marked by devotional songs and prayers.
Day 4: Usha Arghya and Paran
The final day begins before sunrise. Devotees gather at the same water bodies to offer prayers and ‘arghya’ to the rising sun. After the Usha Arghya, the 36-hour fast is broken by consuming the prasad (offerings) and other light foods. This breaking of the fast is known as ‘Paran’. The conclusion of Chhath Puja symbolises the victory of good over evil and marks a period of purification and gratitude.
When Is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a variable date festival, as it is determined by the lunar Hindu calendar. It is celebrated on the sixth day of the Kartika lunar month (Kartik Shukla Shashti) in the Vikram Samvat calendar.
This typically falls approximately six days after Diwali, which means its observance usually occurs in either late October or early November in the Gregorian calendar. The exact dates shift annually based on the lunar cycle. For specific dates, reference to an updated Hindu calendar is necessary.
Chhath Puja Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Holiday / Religious Observance |
| Date | Variable (Kartik Shukla Shashti, 6th day of Kartika lunar month) |
| Countries | Nepal, India (specific states including Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh) |
| Also known as | Surya Shashti |
| Calendar system | Vikram Samvat (Lunar) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is primarily observed to offer gratitude to the Sun God, Surya, for sustaining life on Earth and to seek blessings for the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of family members. Devotees also pray to Chhathi Maiya, who is considered the sister of Lord Surya.
How many days does Chhath Puja last?
Chhath Puja is a four-day festival. Each day has distinct rituals, beginning with ceremonial bathing and vegetarian meals, leading to a 36-hour fast, and culminating in offerings to the setting and rising sun.
When is Chhath Puja celebrated?
Chhath Puja is celebrated on the sixth day of the lunar month of Kartika (Kartik Shukla Shashti) in the Vikram Samvat calendar. This typically falls in October or November according to the Gregorian calendar, a few days after the Diwali festival.