What is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is one of the most ancient and revered Hindu festivals dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, symbolizing purity, devotion, and gratitude. Celebrated mainly in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal, it is unique because of its rigorous rituals and fasting practices that honor the sun for sustaining life on Earth.
Historical Significance of Chhath Puja
This festival traces back thousands of years and finds mention in Vedic scriptures. Historically, Chhath was observed to thank Surya Dev for his blessings, prosperity, and well-being of families. Legends say that even Lord Ram and Sita observed Chhath Puja during their exile, marking its divine significance in Hindu mythology.
Importance of Chhath Puja in 2025
In 2025, Chhath Puja holds even more relevance as people seek spiritual solace and renewal post challenging years. The festival acts as a reminder of gratitude towards nature, family unity, and cultural preservation.
Chhath Puja Rituals
Nahay Khay: The First Day Ritual
Nahay Khay marks the beginning of Chhath Puja. Devotees take a holy bath in rivers or ponds and clean their homes meticulously. The ritual emphasizes purity and preparation for the demanding days ahead. Only vegetarian meals are consumed, avoiding onions, garlic, and processed foods.
Lohanda and Kharna: Observances of Devotion
On the second day, devotees observe Kharna, a 24-hour fast, breaking it in the evening after preparing a sweet dish called kheer. This ritual symbolizes self-discipline, gratitude, and devotion, reinforcing the spiritual essence of the festival.
Sandhya Arghya: Evening Offerings to the Sun
Sandhya Arghya, performed on the third day, is a highlight of Chhath Puja. Devotees gather at riverbanks during sunset to offer prayers and water to Surya Dev. This ritual signifies the reverence of the setting sun, seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and family well-being.
Usha Arghya: Morning Worship and Significance
The fourth day, Usha Arghya, involves offering prayers during sunrise. It is a moment of spiritual awakening and hope, marking the culmination of fasting and devotion. People stand waist-deep in water, offering arghya to the rising sun, symbolizing renewal and energy.
Traditional Foods Prepared During Chhath
Chhath Puja is famous for its simple, natural, and sattvic foods. Items like thekua, fruits, rice, and milk-based sweets are prepared. These foods are offered to the Sun and shared among family and devotees after the puja, reflecting communal harmony and gratitude.
Preparations for Chhath Puja 2025
Cleaning and Decorating the House
Homes are cleaned thoroughly, and puja spaces are decorated with rangoli, flowers, and traditional items. Cleanliness is not just physical but also spiritual, ensuring positive energy for the ritual.
Arranging the Puja Thali
A Puja Thali is prepared with essential items like diyas, fruits, sugarcane, and holy water. Each element holds symbolic meaning, reinforcing devotion and mindfulness during offerings.
Gathering Ingredients for Offerings
Devotees ensure fresh and pure ingredients, sourced locally, to maintain the sanctity of the rituals. Ingredients like thekua, seasonal fruits, and raw sugar are carefully chosen to honor Surya Dev.
Community Preparations and Riverbank Arrangements
Communities come together to clean riversides and ghats, install temporary platforms, and ensure safety measures for devotees. This collective effort showcases the communal spirit and cultural pride associated with Chhath Puja.
Chhath Puja Celebrations Across India
Bihar: Heartland of Chhath
In Bihar, Chhath Puja is celebrated with great grandeur, especially in Patna and Gaya. Devotees gather in large numbers along the Ganga riverbanks, performing rituals with utmost devotion and strict adherence to tradition.
Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand: Regional Variations
While the core rituals remain the same, regional variations add unique flavors to the festival. Local customs, attire, and dishes reflect the cultural diversity of Chhath Puja across states.
Chhath Puja in Nepal
Nepalese celebrate Chhath with equal fervor, particularly in the Terai region. The rituals blend Nepali and Indian traditions, emphasizing sun worship, family unity, and natural harmony.
Chhath Puja in Metro Cities: Modern Observances
In metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, Chhath Puja is celebrated by migrant communities. Urban observances include temporary ghats, social gatherings, and awareness campaigns to maintain eco-friendly practices during the festival.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Worship of Surya Dev (Sun God)
Surya Dev is considered the source of life and energy. By offering prayers and fasting, devotees seek health, prosperity, and protection from negative energies.
Importance of River Worship
Rivers are seen as sacred and life-giving, providing spiritual purification. Devotees immerse themselves in river waters to cleanse both body and soul, connecting deeply with nature.
Health and Wellness Benefits of Chhath Rituals
Beyond spirituality, Chhath rituals promote discipline, detoxification, and mental wellness. Fasting, standing in water, and consuming natural foods improve digestion, circulation, and overall vitality.
Chhath Puja 2025 Dates and Timings
Key Dates in 2025
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Nahay Khay: October 28, 2025
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Lohanda/Kharna: October 29, 2025
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Sandhya Arghya: October 30, 2025
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Usha Arghya: October 31, 2025
Astrological Importance
Chhath Puja aligns with the lunar calendar, specifically the Shukla Paksha of Kartik month. Astrologically, it is considered highly auspicious for starting new ventures, seeking blessings, and strengthening family bonds.
Conclusion
Chhath Puja 2025 is not just a festival—it is a celebration of faith, nature, and family values. Its rituals, though simple, carry deep spiritual meaning and life lessons. By honoring Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya, devotees embrace gratitude, discipline, and communal harmony, making it one of the most cherished festivals in India and Nepal. Whether celebrated traditionally or in modern urban setups, Chhath Puja continues to unite people in devotion and reverence.
FAQs
What is the significance of fasting during Chhath Puja?
Fasting symbolizes self-discipline, purification, and devotion to Surya Dev. It is a way to spiritually cleanse and strengthen one’s body and mind.
Can anyone perform Chhath Puja at home?
Yes, Chhath Puja can be performed at home following proper rituals. However, riverbank celebrations are considered more traditional and auspicious.
How many days does Chhath Puja last?
Chhath Puja lasts four days, including Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya rituals.
What are the traditional foods offered during Chhath Puja?
Traditional foods include thekua, seasonal fruits, rice, kheer, and sugarcane, all prepared in a pure and sattvic manner.
Is Chhath Puja celebrated outside India?
Yes, Chhath Puja is celebrated in Nepal, as well as by Indian diaspora communities worldwide, maintaining traditional customs and rituals.
