Every year, as the Chaturthi date of the Shukla Paksha of Kartik month dawns, a profound spiritual energy envelops India. This is the onset of Chhath Puja, a festival deeply embedded in the ethos of Sanatan Dharma. Predominantly celebrated with unmatched zeal in Bihar, this festival has transcended regional boundaries to be observed across the nation.
Chhath is not just any festival; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the sun, where devotees honour both it’s rising and setting avatars. The dedication of the devotees, especially women, is awe-inspiring. Observing a Nirjala fast, they abstain from water for over 24 hours, praying for the well-being and longevity of their children.
As we approach Chhath Puja in 2024, journey with us into its rich tapestry of rituals, significance, and celebrations. Whether you’re deeply rooted in its traditions or are a curious onlooker, this guide is your beacon into the luminous world of Chhath.
What is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja, a festival deeply rooted in the Hindu tradition, spans across four spiritually charged days. As per the Panchang, this revered festival is celebrated annually on the Shashthi of Shukla Paksha during the Kartik month.
The essence of Chhath Puja lies in its prayers for longevity, well-being, and a promising future for one’s children. Recognized as one of the most challenging fasts, devotees immerse themselves in a rigorous 36-hour fast, adhering to stringent guidelines. Remarkably, for over twenty-four hours of this period, not a drop of water touches their lips.
While the main fast is observed on the Shashthi Tithi, the festival’s commencement is marked on Chaturthi and concludes on Saptami Tithi, post the offering of Arghya during the morning sunrise. So, when does this spiritual journey begin in 2024? Let’s delve deeper.
When is Chhath Puja 2024?
- Day 1: Nahaaye Khaaye 17th November, Friday
- Day 2: Kharna 18 November, Saturday
- Day 3: Sandhya Arghya 19 November, Sunday
- Day 4: Usha Arghya and Paran 20 November, Monday
Chhath Puja 2024 Muhurat Schedule
- Nahaaye Khaye
- Date: 17 November 2024
- Day: Friday
- Sunrise: 06:45 a.m.
- Sunset: 05:27 p.m.
- Kharna and Lohanda
- Date: 18 November 2024
- Day: Saturday
- Sunrise: 06:46 a.m.
- Sunset: 05:26 p.m.
- Sandhya Argha
- Date: 19 November 2024
- Day: Sunday
- Sunrise: 06:46 a.m.
- Sunset: 05:26 p.m.
- Usha Arghya
- Date: 20 November 2024
- Day: Monday
- Sunrise: 06:47 a.m.
- Sunset: 05:26 a.m.
How is Chhath Puja Celebrated?
Chhath Puja is not a mere festival; it’s a spiritual odyssey spread across four days, each with its unique rituals and significance. The journey commences with ‘Nahay-Khay’ on the Chaturthi of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month, marking the festival’s onset. As the celebrations progress to the second day, devotees observe ‘Kharna’, a day of special rituals.
The crescendo of the festival is reached on the Shashthi Tithi, where the main Chhath fast is observed. On this pivotal day, ‘Arghya’ is presented to the setting sun, symbolizing the cycle of life and decay. The festival culminates on Saptami, with the offering of ‘Arghya’ to the rising sun, celebrating rebirth and new beginnings. It is only after this final homage that the grandeur of the Chhath Puja reaches its completion.
Chhath Puja Traditions and Rituals: A Day-by-Day Guide
Chhath Puja, a festival deeply entrenched in devotion and reverence, unfolds over four days, each marked by specific rituals and traditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the day-wise celebrations:
Day 1: Nahaaye Khaaye
The inaugural day of Chhath Puja is termed ‘Nahaye Khaye’, which translates to “to bathe and eat”. On this day, devotees, preparing to embark on their spiritual journey, take a sacred dip in water bodies like ponds, rivers, or other sources. This act of purification sets the tone for the days to come.
Day 2: Kharna
The second day, known as ‘Kharna’, sees devotees observing a stringent Nirjala fast, refraining from both food and water. As the day progresses, a special prasad is prepared and offered to Chhati Mata. This prasad, imbued with the blessings of the deity, is then shared among relatives and friends, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya
The third day, termed ‘Sandhya Arghya’, is dedicated to offering ‘Arghya’ to the Sun during the evening. This offering comprises an assortment of sweets and fruits. As the sun sets, the ambiance is further elevated by the recitation of the Chhath Vrat Katha and the melodious rendition of devotional songs, resonating with devotion and gratitude.
Day 4: Usha Arghya and Paran
The culmination of Chhath Puja is marked by ‘Usha Arghya and Paran’. As dawn breaks, devotees gather at river banks or nearby water sources to present ‘Arghya’ to the rising sun. Their prayers, filled with hope and reverence, seek blessings of good health, happiness, and prosperity from Chhathi Mata and the Sun God. The fast, observed with unwavering dedication, is finally broken by consuming ginger and jaggery, symbolizing the end of their spiritual journey.
A notable culinary highlight during Chhath Puja is ‘Thekua’. This traditional dry sweet, crafted with wheat flour, dry coconut, melted sugar, and ghee, is not just a delicacy but also a symbol of the festival’s rich heritage and traditions.
Chhath Puja Prasad: ‘Thekua’
The prasad or sacred offerings of Chhath Puja are a delightful blend of tradition and taste, embodying the essence of the festival. Central to the prasad is the simple yet soulful ingredients of jaggery, ghee, and atta (wheat flour), which are combined in various ways to create delectable treats. One of the most iconic among these is ‘Thekua’, a crunchy sweet made primarily from wheat flour and jaggery, deep-fried to perfection in ghee.
Another cherished delicacy is the ‘Rasia Kheer’, a rich pudding made from rice, milk, and sweeteners. The prasad platter is further adorned with an assortment of dry fruits, fresh coconut slices, ripe bananas, and dabh lemons.
Sugar canes are often cut into pieces and added, symbolizing prosperity and sweetness in life. Special rice laddoos, soft and aromatic, are also a part of this divine spread. Each element of the Chhath Puja prasad is not just a gastronomic delight but also a representation of the festival’s rich cultural tapestry.
Chhath Puja: A Journey Through Time and Significance
Origins of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja, a festival deeply rooted in purity and unwavering devotion, traces its origins to ancient Hindu scriptures and tales. While its exact inception remains shrouded in mystery, two prominent epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, provide insights into its historical significance.
Connection with the Ramayana
Legend has it that upon their triumphant return to Ayodhya, Lord Rama, and Sita observed a fast dedicated to the Sun God. They broke this fast with the descending sun, a ritual believed to be the precursor to the Chhath Puja we know today.
Tales from the Mahabharata
Karna, the valiant warrior of Mahabharata and the son of Sun God and Kunti, is often associated with the early practices of Chhath Puja. Renowned for offering prayers while standing amidst water, Karna’s devotion is emblematic of the festival’s essence. Additionally, tales recount how Draupadi and the Pandavas sought the blessings of the Sun God through similar rituals to reclaim their lost kingdom.
The Science Behind Chhath Puja
Beyond its religious significance, Chhath Puja offers health benefits. Immersing oneself in water and basking in the sun’s rays enhances solar bio-electricity in the body, promoting detoxification. This ritualistic exposure to the sun also fortifies the body against harmful bacteria, preparing it for the chill of the impending winter.
Chhath Puja: The Essence
From the Vedic era to the present day, Chhath Puja has been a beacon of gratitude and reverence. Stories of Karna’s devotion and Sita’s blessings of progeny after observing the puja are passed down through generations.
The Sun God: A Beacon of Life
The Sun, our planet’s life force, is celebrated during Chhath Puja. Every living entity, from the colossal to the microscopic, derives energy from this celestial body. On this day, devotees express their heartfelt gratitude to this omnipotent force.
Chhath Puja in Modern Times
Chhath is commemorated biannually: ‘Chaiti Chhath’ in the Chaitra month and the grander celebration in the Kartik month. Today, both men and women partake in the fasts, but traditionally, women, known as ‘parvaitin’, were the primary observers. Their unwavering faith and dedication continue to be the festival’s cornerstone.
Where is Chhath Puja celebrated?
The serene ambiance of river ghats becomes the epicenter of Chhath Puja celebrations. As the festival is intrinsically linked with water, devotees gather at these natural sanctuaries to perform rituals. In areas where rivers might not be accessible, constructed water roads in the suburbs serve as alternative venues. The reflection of the setting and rising sun on the water intensifies the spiritual aura, making these locations ideal for the observance of Chhath.
Here’s a detailed look at the places where this festival holds significant importance:
Bihar
Bihar stands as the epicenter of Chhath Puja celebrations. Recognized as a state festival, the fervor and enthusiasm here are unparalleled. Particularly along the banks of the revered Ganga river, towns and villages come alive with traditional songs, spirited dancing, and the heartfelt exchange of greetings and gifts. The riverbanks echo with collective prayers, making the ambiance truly divine.
Jharkhand
Jharkhand, sharing cultural ties with Bihar, celebrates Chhath Puja with equal devotion. The festival holds a special place in the hearts of the people here. Marked by grand parades and the illuminating glow of lamps along riverbanks, the state immerses itself in the spiritual aura of Chhath.
Uttar Pradesh
The eastern districts of Uttar Pradesh, especially those nestled along the Ganga, like Varanasi, Ghazipur, and Ballia, are known for their Chhath Puja celebrations. As the sun sets, throngs of people gather along the riverbanks, offering ‘arghya’ to the Sun God. The festival’s spirit is further amplified by the distribution of ‘prasad’, symbolizing blessings and gratitude.
Nepal Terai
Beyond the borders of India, the festival finds resonance in Nepal, particularly in the Terai region. The traditions mirror those of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, with people congregating on riverbanks to offer ‘arghya’. Traditional songs and dances add to the festive spirit. It’s also noteworthy that many Nepalese join the celebrations in the Indian states, strengthening the cultural bond between the two nations.
Chhath Puja Ghat Decoration
- Rangoli (Alapana): Traditional designs, often depicting the sun and moon, crafted at home entrances using colored powders.
- Diyas: Oil-filled lamps adorned with wicks, placed predominantly at entrances and puja spaces.
- Flowers: Fresh blooms like marigold, hibiscus, and lotus enhance the festive ambiance.
- Torans: Auspicious garlands crafted from mango leaves, flowers, and vibrant beads, hung at doorways.
- String Lights: Modern illuminations brighten up the puja spaces and home entrances.
- Banana and Mango Leaves: Traditional elements for decoration and in crafting sweets like Lai and Khajuria.
- Temporary Altars: Dedicated spaces for the Sun God and ancestors, adorned with flowers, incense, and traditional symbols.
Final Word
As we approach Chhath Puja 2024, slated to commence on 17th November, the air will be filled with devotion and reverence. Predominantly celebrated in the heartlands of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, this age-old Hindu festival pays homage to the Sun God and the goddess Ganga.
The rituals, encompassing fasting, heartfelt prayers, and offerings to the Sun, are a testament to the deep spiritual connection and gratitude of the devotees. At Tusk Travel, we recognize the profound significance of Chhath Puja and invite everyone to immerse themselves in this religious and spiritual celebration, cherishing the traditions that bind us together.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chhath Puja
What is the significance of Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and his sister, Chhati Maiya. It’s a time for expressing gratitude for life’s blessings and seeking prosperity, health, and happiness.
When is Chhath Puja celebrated?
In 2024, the Shashthi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month begins at 09:18 am on Saturday, 18th November, and concludes the following day, Sunday, 19th November at 07:23 am. Based on Udayatithi, the primary day of Chhath Puja falls on 19th November.
What are the main rituals of Chhath Puja?
The festival spans four days, with rituals including fasting, taking holy dips in water bodies, offering ‘arghya’ to the rising and setting sun, and preparing traditional prasad.
How is Chhath Puja Prasad made?
The prasad primarily consists of ingredients like jaggery, ghee, and wheat flour. Delicacies like Thekua, Rasia Kheer, and rice laddoos are prepared, along with offerings of fruits and other traditional items.
Where is Chhath Puja predominantly celebrated?
While Chhath Puja is observed across many parts of India, it’s most prominently celebrated in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It’s also observed in the Terai region of Nepal.
Why is the Sun God central to Chhath Puja?
The Sun is revered as the primary source of life and energy. Chhath Puja rituals honor the Sun God for sustaining life on earth and seek his blessings for a prosperous life.
