Chhath Puja, an ancient Hindu festival dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God), is one of the most important celebrations for Hindus, especially in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as in parts of Nepal. This year, Chhath Puja will be observed over four days, from November 7 to November 10, 2024. The festival involves rituals performed at sunrise and sunset, expressing gratitude to the sun for sustaining life on earth.
Origins and Significance
Chhath Puja’s origins trace back to Hindu mythology and the epics, particularly the Mahabharata. Legends tell of Draupadi and the Pandavas observing Chhath Puja to regain their lost kingdom. Another story links the rituals to Karna, the son of Surya, who performed these devotions to honor his celestial parent. Symbolically, Chhath Puja represents harmony between humans and nature, a time to thank the Sun God for health, prosperity, and agricultural abundance.
The festival is not only religious but also ecological. Rituals are often conducted near rivers and ponds, reinforcing the importance of water conservation and the upkeep of these natural resources. This alignment with environmental respect makes Chhath a celebration of life, sustainability, and communal harmony.
Key Rituals and Dates
Chhath Puja is a four-day ritualistic festival with distinct observances each day:
- Nahai Khai (November 7): The first day begins with cleansing and purification, and devotees take a dip in rivers to symbolize purity.
- Kharna (November 8): Devotees fast without water until evening, after which they break their fast with a meal made from jaggery, rice, and milk.
- Sandhya Arghya (November 9): On this day, devotees offer “arghya” (water offerings) to the setting sun while standing in knee-deep water, typically at a local river or water body.
- Usha Arghya (November 10): The festival concludes with an early morning ritual offering to the rising sun. This is followed by breaking the fast, marking the end of the festival.
Traditional Offerings and Foods
During Chhath Puja, specific food items are prepared, emphasizing purity and simplicity. The main offerings include “Thekua,” a traditional cookie made with wheat flour and jaggery, and seasonal fruits like bananas, coconut, and sugarcane. These offerings, combined with holy water, signify the harmony of nature and the divine.
Ways to Celebrate
People come together to clean local water bodies, decorate homes, and prepare for the communal gatherings. In metropolitan cities with significant populations from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, such as Delhi and Mumbai, riverbanks and lakes become temporary pilgrimage sites for Chhath Puja. Additionally, cities like Patna, Ranchi, and Varanasi observe grand celebrations along the Ganges River, where families and neighbors unite for the rituals. Community feasts and sharing of offerings further add to the festival’s inclusivity and communal joy.
Cultural Impact and Modern Observances
Chhath Puja highlights values of resilience, unity, and respect for nature. As it becomes more widely recognized, people across India and the Indian diaspora celebrate it, keeping traditions alive even in urban environments. Through high levels of devotion and ecological mindfulness, Chhath Puja serves as a reminder of humanity’s intrinsic connection with the natural world, making it not just a religious celebration but also a cultural cornerstone in regions where it’s observed.
