Chhath Puja - A Festival Of Devotion & Gratitude
BY: PRAGATI UPADHYAY
Chhath Puja is one of India’s most sacred festivals, dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, celebrating purity, faith, and nature.
Essence Of Chhath Puja
Devotees thank the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth and pray for prosperity, good health, and family well-being.
Spiritual Significance
Chhath Puja spans four days - Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya each with deep spiritual meaning.
Four Days Of Rituals
The festival begins with devotees bathing in holy rivers and preparing a pure meal, marking a spiritual cleanse before the fast.
Day 1 - Nahay Khay
On this day, devotees observe a strict fast without water until sunset, breaking it with
kheer
and
roti
, offered to Chhathi Maiya.
Day 2 - Kharna
Devotees gather on riverbanks to offer arghya (water offerings) to the setting sun, singing folk songs and performing traditional rituals.
Day 3 - Sandhya Arghya
The final morning is devoted to offering prayers to the rising sun, marking the end of the fast and symbolizing hope and renewal.
Day 4 - Usha Arghya
Chhath Puja is celebrated with grandeur in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal, uniting millions in devotion and harmony.
Celebration Across India