A Heartfelt Homage to Sun God and Chhathi Maiya

Dear Friends,

Today, I want to share something about a festival close to our hearts — “Chhath Puja.” Celebrated from November 5th to November 8th, 2024,

Chhath Puja is not just another festival; it’s a grand celebration of faith, unity, and tradition that brings families together, regardless of where they are in the world.

This four-day festival, known also as Surya Shashthi, is celebrated six days after Diwali, particularly in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand, with immense devotion.

Let’s delve into the unique rituals of each day and explore what makes Chhath Puja a timeless celebration of life, tradition, and reverence.

The Four Sacred Days of Chhath Puja

Day 1: Nahay Khay (November 5, 2024)

The first day, called Nahay Khay, marks the beginning of the festival. Vratis (devotees) take a holy dip, traditionally in the Ganges or any nearby water body, to purify themselves and their surroundings.

This act of cleansing is symbolic, as it clears the mind and soul, preparing for the days of devotion to come.

After the bath, the home is cleaned thoroughly, and the Vratis consume simple, vegetarian meals to set a pure tone for the days ahead. This day serves as the foundation, promoting self-discipline and simplicity.

Day 2: Kharna (November 6, 2024)

On Kharna, the second day, Vratis observes a strict Nirjala Vrat—fasting without a single drop of water from sunrise until sunset.

This day embodies dedication and resilience. At sunset, the fast is broken with an offering to the Sun God. A simple but delicious meal, usually consisting of gur ki kheer (jaggery rice pudding), fruits, and chapatis laden with ghee, is prepared as Prasad.

It’s a heartwarming scene as family members gather around, sharing in the simplicity and sanctity of the meal after an entire day of abstinence.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (November 7, 2024)

The third day, Sandhya Arghya, is one of the most significant parts of Chhath Puja. As the sun dips towards the horizon, Vratis and family members gather along riverbanks or ponds, beautifully decorated baskets filled with offerings in hand.

These offerings include Thekua (a traditional wheat flour and jaggery sweet), rice laddus, and seasonal fruits, carefully prepared by family members.

As the Arghya is offered to the setting sun, the serene surroundings echo with the melodious tunes of Chhath songs.

The Vratis pray for the health, prosperity, and happiness of their loved ones, and the community spirit is strong as people unite in devotion.

Day 4: Usha Arghya (November 8, 2024)

On the final day, known as Usha Arghya, devotees gather before dawn to offer their prayers to the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and gratitude.

As the first rays of sunlight touch the earth, Vratis offer their final Arghya, praying to Chhathi Maiya for the well-being of all.

Following this, they break their fast with a sip of sharbat and raw milk, along with a small portion of Prasad, marking the end of the four-day ritual.

The Prasad, especially Thekua and rice laddus, is then shared with friends, family, and neighbors, spreading joy and blessings.

Chhath Puja: A Testament to Unity and Cultural Strength

Chhath Puja is much more than a ritual. It’s a celebration of unity in diversity and deep cultural values.

Despite the globalized, fast-paced world, this festival remains a powerful reminder of our heritage, uniting people across caste, creed, and social backgrounds.

It’s heartening to see how, with each passing year, more and more people are recognizing the significance of Chhath Puja as a cultural phenomenon, embracing its values of simplicity, devotion, and gratitude.

Long live the traditions of Hindu culture! As generations pass, festivals like Chhath Puja continue to strengthen and evolve, preserving our roots and connecting us in profound ways.

Wishing everyone the very best for Chhath Puja! Let us keep up this beautiful tradition, carrying forward the timeless values of unity, gratitude, and reverence for nature.

Categories: infotainment

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