Chhath Puja, steeped in rich history and cultural significance, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Vedic times, where worshipping the Sun God, Surya, was an integral part of Vedic rituals. It’s fascinating that this revered tradition has been carried forward through generations, preserving our ancestral customs and values.
Intriguingly, Chhath Puja is not limited to a particular group or region but extends its warm embrace to people of all castes, creeds, and religions. It is a unifying festival where individuals from various walks of life come together with pure hearts and souls. Whether male, female, teenagers, spinsters, or bachelors, everyone can partake in this beautiful celebration.
The significance of Chhath Puja deepens when we consider the tales from our mythology. Goddess Sita, upon her return to Ayodhya alongside the celebrated King Raja Ram Chandra, observed this sacred Puja. Subsequently, Kunti performed the Puja and, as a divine blessing, gave birth to the brave warrior Surya Putra Karn. These legends not only add to the festival’s allure but also remind us of its timeless importance.
Chhath Puja is unique as it is celebrated twice a year, once in the Chaitra month and then in the Kartik month, specifically on the sixth day of Shukla Paksha. The Kartik month Chhath holds particular significance, as it marks the celebration of the new harvest season and the fruits of hard labor. It’s a time when Hindu Gods and Goddesses rejoice in the devotion and purity offered by their devotees.
As we partake in the rituals of Chhath Puja, we are reminded of the Sun’s impartiality in spreading its life-giving rays to all living and nonliving beings without discrimination. In a similar spirit, Chhath Puja teaches us to shed discrimination and embrace unity. It is a day when we seek blessings from the Sun God with pure hearts, mirroring the Sun’s inclusivity and benevolence.
What Happens During Chhath Puja
Day 1: Nahay Khay (The Holy Bath)
People wake up very early and go to a river or pond to take a unique bath. This bath is not just to clean their bodies but also to clean their spirits. After the bath, devotees prepare a simple yet significant meal called “kaddu-bhat” and offer it to the Sun God. The delicious smell of the food fills the air, and everyone starts to understand how important this day is.
Day 2: Lohanda and Kharna (The Fasting Day)
On the second day, people only eat or drink something during the day. This is a test of their self-control and faith. In the evening, as the sun starts its descent, devotees prepare a humble feast. A warm bowl of “kheer” (rice pudding) and freshly made “roti” (flatbread) become symbols of their endurance and unwavering faith. It’s a way to show how strong their faith is.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (The Evening Offering)
On the third day, as the Sun goes down, people gather by the water again. They bring fruits, sugarcane stalks, and thekua (a sweet delicacy), all offered to the Sun God. Everyone stands in the water, facing the setting sun, and prays. They offer gifts to the river, and their prayers go with the flowing water. This is a way to connect with nature and feel closer to God.
Day 4: Usha Arghya (The Morning Offering)
The fourth and final day is extraordinary. People wake up early to welcome the sunrise. As the initial Sunlight gently embraces the horizon, they offer prayers and gifts to the rising Sun. It’s a moment of connection between people and nature. The rituals of Chhath Puja end with this beautiful act, reminding everyone that life is precious and that the Sun is a symbol of hope.
Conclusion
Chhath Puja isn’t just a festival; it’s a journey of the heart. It’s a testament to the enduring power of tradition, the universal significance of gratitude, and the profound connection between humans and nature. Whether on the banks of the sacred Ganges in India or the shores of the mighty Hudson River in the USA, Chhath Puja continues to unite hearts in reverence and celebration.
It’s a reminder that our existence is intertwined with the Sun and water, and our journey, guided by tradition and devotion, is one of unwavering hope and profound spirituality. As we witness the beauty of Chhath Puja, we are reminded of the enduring power of tradition and the universal significance of expressing gratitude for the life-sustaining forces surrounding us.
