Overview of Chhath Puja 2024

Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as in parts of Nepal. It is dedicated to the worship of Suryadev (Sun God) and his consort, Chhathi Maiya. The festival typically spans four days and is observed during the month of Kartika (October-November).

Significance

1. Worship of the Sun: Chhath Puja honors Suryadev, who is believed to bestow health, wealth, and prosperity upon devotees. The sun is considered a source of energy and life in Hinduism.
2. Environmental Awareness: The festival encourages participants to connect with nature, symbolizing gratitude for the environment and the importance of clean rivers and water bodies.
3. Fasting and Rituals: Devotees observe strict fasting, refrain from drinking water, and perform various rituals, including taking holy dips in rivers, preparing offerings, and singing traditional songs.
4. Community and Family Bonding: The festival fosters a sense of community as families and friends gather to celebrate together, strengthening bonds and cultural ties.
5. Spiritual Cleansing: The rituals associated with Chhath Puja are believed to purify the body and soul, allowing devotees to seek forgiveness and blessings for a prosperous life.

Rituals of Chhath Puja

• Nahay Khay: The first day involves taking a holy dip and cooking food for family members.
• Kharna: The second day includes a day-long fast, which is broken after sunset with offerings of jaggery kheer (rice pudding).
• Sandhya Arghya: The third day is dedicated to offering prayers to the setting sun with offerings placed in bamboo baskets.
• Usha Arghya: On the final day, devotees offer prayers to the rising sun with offerings, concluding the festival.

Chhath Puja is a beautiful manifestation of faith, devotion, and cultural heritage, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of Hindu worship and the reverence for natural elements.