Hello dear friends,

I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful and festive mood.

Today is a very special day for millions of people, particularly those belonging to Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh and Nepal. It is the auspicious occasion of Kharna, the second day of the four-day-long Chhath Puja.

For me, Chhath is not just another religious festival. It is an emotion deeply connected with my childhood, family, Bihar’s cultural heritage and countless beautiful memories. Wherever I may be, my heart always travels home during these four days.

Let us explore some fascinating aspects of this extraordinary festival.

1. Kharna: A Test of Faith and Discipline

Kharna, also known as Lohanda, is observed on the second day of Chhath Puja. Devotees observe a day-long fast, generally without food or water, from sunrise until sunset.

After sunset, they offer prayers to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya before breaking their fast with specially prepared prasad.

The traditional Kharna meal generally includes gur ki kheer (jaggery-based rice pudding), chapatis prepared with ghee and bananas.

An interesting tradition is that the prasad is prepared with exceptional cleanliness and devotion. The atmosphere becomes peaceful, and family members eagerly wait to receive this sacred offering.

After consuming the Kharna prasad, devotees begin the rigorous approximately 36-hour nirjala fast, which continues until the morning Arghya on the final day.

2. Thekua: The Sweetness of Bihar’s Tradition

Can we imagine Chhath Puja without Thekua?

Absolutely not!

Thekua is perhaps the most recognisable traditional offering of this festival. Prepared using wheat flour, jaggery and ghee, it is flavoured with cardamom and deep-fried until golden brown.

Interestingly, Thekua does not require artificial preservatives and can remain fresh for several days when stored properly.

But its real sweetness lies elsewhere.

Thekua is traditionally prepared collectively by family members. Children, elders and women participate in the preparation, turning an ordinary cooking activity into a beautiful family celebration.

3. Five Fascinating Facts About Chhath Puja

Fact 1: Worshipping the Setting Sun

Most people associate Sun worship with sunrise. However, Chhath devotees offer Arghya to both the setting and rising Sun.

This is a beautiful reminder that we should respect every phase of life, including beginnings and endings.

Fact 2: No Idol Worship Is Necessary

Unlike many other Hindu festivals, Chhath Puja does not require elaborate idols or temple rituals. Devotees worship Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya through natural elements, water, sunlight and traditional offerings.

Fact 3: Bamboo Has a Special Place

Traditional bamboo baskets and soops are used to carry fruits, Thekua and other offerings.

These simple, eco-friendly materials reflect the festival’s close connection with nature and traditional craftsmanship.

Fact 4: A Festival Without Social Barriers

Chhath is a wonderful example of social harmony. People from different economic backgrounds participate together. Small vendors, farmers, artisans and local shopkeepers play an important role in the celebrations.

The festival brings communities together in a spirit of equality and cooperation.

Fact 5: Nature Is at the Centre of Everything

From fruits and sugarcane to water bodies, sunlight and seasonal produce, almost every aspect of Chhath reflects gratitude towards nature.

It is a beautiful reminder that human survival depends upon the natural world.

4. The Scientific and Environmental Connection

There is an interesting dimension to Chhath Puja.

Sunlight is our primary natural source of vitamin D, and the Sun sustains life on Earth. The festival encourages people to acknowledge this extraordinary gift of nature.

Similarly, traditional offerings highlight seasonal agricultural produce and local food habits.

The practice of gathering at rivers, ponds and other water bodies also reminds us of the importance of protecting our water resources. Of course, keeping these places clean should be an essential part of our celebrations.

In the evening, women prepare KHEER as Prasada,

5. Beyond Rituals: An Emotion That Connects Generations

What makes Chhath truly extraordinary is its emotional significance.

The melodious Chhath folk songs, the fragrance of Thekua, beautifully decorated bamboo baskets, colourful markets and the sight of devotees standing in rivers during Arghya create an unforgettable atmosphere.

For those living away from Bihar, these moments bring back memories of home, childhood and family togetherness.

Perhaps the greatest achievement of Chhath is that it connects generations. Children learn traditions from their parents and grandparents, ensuring that this beautiful cultural heritage continues.

My Final Submission

Chhath teaches us some valuable lessons: discipline, patience, simplicity, gratitude and respect for nature.

We do not need expensive decorations or grand celebrations to express our devotion. Sometimes, a humble offering made with a pure heart is more meaningful than anything money can buy.

As the devotees prepare for Sandhya Arghya tomorrow, let us pray for happiness, good health and prosperity for everyone.

May the divine blessings of Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya illuminate our lives with hope, peace and positivity.

Long live the beautiful traditions of Chhath!

BE HAPPY… BE ACTIVE… BE FOCUSED… BE ALIVE

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Categories: infotainment

Tags: #भावना, #Chhath Puja, #Kharna, #wellness