Chhath Puja is one of the most revered festivals in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. This ancient Vedic festival, dedicated to Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya, symbolizes gratitude, purity, and devotion. Its strict rituals and the faith of the devotees make it unique, as they perform it for the well-being of their families and communities.
Significance of Chhath Puja
The main objective of Chhath is to worship the Sun God, who is considered the sustainer of life. Devotees believe that the energy of the sun helps heal diseases and ensures prosperity. Chhathi Maiya , the sister of the Sun God , is also honored for the nurturing and protection of families and children .
The Four-Day Rituals
Chhath Puja lasts for four days, with unique rituals on each day:
- Nahay Khay (First Day): The first day marks the beginning of the purification process. Devotees take a bath in the holy river and bring water home to prepare offerings (sacred food). The meals are simple and vegetarian, focusing on purity.
- Lohanda and Kharna (Second Day): Devotees fast without water all day and break their fast in the evening with kheer (rice pudding), bread, and fruit offerings. After this, a 36-hour dry fast (without water) follows.
- Sandhya Arghya (Third Day): In the evening, devotees gather by the riverbanks or ponds and offer ‘arghya’ (the act of pouring water) to the setting sun. This ritual is filled with songs, prayers, and a captivating display of devotion.
- Usha Arghya (Fourth Day): The final morning ritual is to offer prayers to the rising sun. After this arghya, devotees conclude their fast, symbolizing gratitude towards the Sun God and the end of Chhath Puja.
On the night of Chhath, it is celebrated as Chhath Puja. This festival is observed on the sixth day of the waxing phase of the month of Kartik. On this day, worship is done for the Sun and Chhathi Maiya. There are many beliefs and stories behind Chhath .
Beliefs about celebrating the night of Chhath:
- It is believed that Mother Aditi gave birth to the Sun on the sixth day of the month of Kartik.
- The story goes that when there was a war between the gods and demons, the gods faced defeat.
- During that time, Mother Aditi performed intense penance for a child at the Devarak Sun Temple.
- Pleased with this penance, Chhathi Maiya granted Aditi the boon of having a radiant son.
- Chhathi Maiya is the sister of Sun God.
- Chhath Puja is especially performed for the wish of children and long life.
- Chhathi Devi is the presiding goddess of children.
- On this day, along with the formal worship of the Shashthi Devi, good health is also wished for.
Rituals and Offerings कृत्य और भोग
Chhath Puja is characterized by rigorous rituals related to the offering of fruits, sweets, and other items in bamboo baskets. Devotees usually prepare theakua, a special sweet made from wheat flour, ghee, and jaggery. It is offered to the Sun God along with other seasonal fruits like bananas and coconuts.
Important aspects of Chhath Puja:
- This festival is celebrated six days after Diwali.
- It is dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God).
- The festival involves devotion, fasting, and the distribution of sweets and fruits.
- Both the rising and setting sun are worshipped during this festival.
- For four days, restraint and rituals are observed.
- During this festival, the person observing Chhath, also known as Parvati, fasts from morning until evening.
- This festival originated in the Munger district.
Devotional Spirit
During Chhath Puja, the spirit of devotion and community is felt. Songs dedicated to Chhathi Maiya and the Sun God resonate at the ghats, providing a deep sense of spirituality. Both women Or men participate in traditional attire, singing folk songs and preparing for the araghya.
Cultural Significance and Social Bonding
Chhath Puja is not just a religious festival, but a time for family bonding and community participation. This festival showcases a wonderful display of community unity, as the entire community comes together to support one another in activities, sharing food, space, and responsibilities.
Download Chhath Puja Images
To celebrate and share the joys of Chhath Puja with loved ones, download these specially prepared Chhath Puja images:
Share these beautiful images to spread the essence of Chhath Puja among your friends and family!
Chhath Puja is a celebration of unwavering faith, discipline, and gratitude towards the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. It reflects the true spirit of devotion and unity. May this Chhath bring peace, health, and prosperity to you and your loved ones.
Wishing everyone a joyful Chhath Puja and a day filled with happiness! Share it with your family and friends to spread the joy of the festival. #ChhathPuja #Devotion #Culture
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