Seeking blessings for longevity, prosperity, and well-being
As you will discover, Chhath Puja is a celebration of life, with devotees worshipping the Sun God to seek blessings. The festival holds profound significance with the Sun revered as a symbol of life, energy, and light. It is observed twice a year, in the months of Chaitra (March-April) and Kartika (October-November), underlining the enduring connection between nature and human life. By immersing themselves in the holy waters of the river Ganga and offering prayers to the Sun God, devotees offer prayers for longevity, prosperity, and well-being.
Rooted in ancient Vedic traditions
Chhath Puja traces its roots to ancient Hindu Vedic traditions and reflects the deep-seated reverence for the Sun God as one that sustains all life on Earth. This festival is celebrated over four days, each with unique rituals: Nahay Khay, Lohanda or Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya. It's fascinating to note that Chhath Puja is the only occasion where both the setting and rising sun are worshipped.
A four-day spiritual odyssey
Chhath Puja is a four-day spiritual journey that immerses devotees in devotion and austerity.
The first day, Nahay Khay, involves taking a holy dip in rivers or water bodies and collecting Ganges water for special offerings at home. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, symbolising purification.
The second day, Kharna, includes a day-long fast, broken in the evening after worshipping Mother Earth. Devotees offer rice pudding (kheer) and fruits, sharing the prasad with loved ones. The rigorous fasting and rituals symbolise purity and devotion to the Sun God.
On the third day, Sandhya Arghya, devotees congregate at riverbanks in the evening, making offerings (Arghya) to the setting sun. Folk songs and cultural performances create an enchanting atmosphere. The night of the third day is illuminated by the Kosi festival, where sugarcane stick canopies adorned with lighted lamps and prasad are a sight to behold.
The fourth and final day, Usha Arghya, begins with devotees offering Arghya to the rising sun, breaking their fast, and sharing prasad with neighbours and family. It's a culmination of devotion and celebration.
