Chhath Puja is an ancient Hindu festival that celebrates the Sun God, Surya, and his consort, Usha (the goddess of dawn). It’s deeply rooted in the culture of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some parts of Nepal, where millions participate each year to give thanks for the sun’s life-sustaining energy. This vibrant festival spans four days, each marked by unique and symbolic rituals, all aimed at fostering spiritual purity and harmony with nature.
The festival begins with a day known as Nahay Khay, where devotees cleanse their bodies and homes to prepare for the upcoming fast. This day sets a tone of purification, as devotees aim to align their physical and spiritual selves. The second day, Kharna, involves fasting from sunrise to sunset. At the end of the day, devotees break their fast with a meal prepared without salt, often made from rice, milk, and jaggery. Following this, they embark on a continuous 36-hour fast, abstaining from food and water, demonstrating dedication and endurance.
On the third day, one of the most distinctive aspects of Chhath Puja takes place. Devotees gather at rivers, ponds, or other water bodies to offer arghya (a ritual offering) to the setting sun. This gesture symbolizes gratitude for the light that sustains all life on Earth. As night falls, families gather, sharing stories, songs, and prayers in a collective spirit of devotion.
The festival concludes on the fourth day with another arghya, but this time to the rising sun. Devotees wade into the water to perform this ritual at dawn, praying for the well-being, health, and prosperity of their loved ones. Chhath Puja is known for its simplicity, as devotees use natural offerings like fruits, grains, and sugarcane rather than elaborate decorations. This simplicity and focus on nature reflect the festival’s emphasis on purity, humility, and harmony with the environment, making Chhath Puja a beautiful expression of spiritual connection and gratitude toward nature.
By, Preeksha Chaudhary
Class:- 9