Chhath Puja isn’t just any festival; it’s a vibrant spectacle that celebrates devotion, nature, and timeless tradition, mostly observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, with a growing resonance in other states and among the Indian diaspora. It’s a festival that resonates with mythical power and familial love, bringing people together in a harmonious union with nature. Devotees come together over four days of strict fasting and prayer, dedicated to the Sun God (Lord Surya) and his sister, Chhathi Maiya, while paying tribute to nature and their families’ well-being.
Sita’s legacy in Chhath
Rooted deep in ancient tales, Chhath Puja traces back to the Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga, linked with powerful mythological figures. As per the history, Lord Rama and Sita performed the Chhath rituals after their victorious return to Ayodhya. Sita’s observance of Chhath symbolised her gratitude and respect toward the Sun God, setting a divine precedent for generations. Through this symbolic act, Sita’s legacy lives on in the hearts of devotees who see Chhath as an expression of strength, purity, and devotion. Other notable characters, such as Karna, who offered “Arghya” (a water-based prayer offering) to the Sun each morning, and Draupadi, who performed Chhath during the Pandavas’ exile, further underline the festival’s connection to mythology and nature.
A four-day dance with devotion
Chhath Puja follows a series of precise rituals spanning four days, each carrying a unique meaning. The first day, Nahay Khay (November 5, 2024), marks the beginning with purification and simple meals. Day two, Kharna (November 6), is marked by intense fasting, and a special offering to the Sun God is made in the evening, symbolizing strength and faith. Sandhya Arghya (November 7) is the highlight, with devotees immersing themselves in water to make offerings to the setting sun. Usha Arghya (November 8) concludes the ritual with morning offerings to the rising sun, completing the cycle of devotion.
A celebration of unity and nature
Chhath Puja is a powerful reflection of family unity and communal bonding. Across villages, towns, and bustling cities, water bodies fill with devotees who come together to offer prayers and share in the festive spirit. The festival has also become a cultural phenomenon, spreading beyond Bihar to places like West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and beyond India’s borders, drawing crowds with a shared reverence for the Sun God and the gifts of nature.
In the end, Chhath Puja isn’t just about the rituals—it’s a celebration of tradition, love, and a deep-seated connection with nature, where faith and family unite under the blessings of the Sun.
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