Chhath Puja, a significant festival for millions of people, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, begins this year on November 5 and will continue until November 7, 2024. This four-day festival is a deeply rooted cultural and spiritual event dedicated to worshiping the Sun God (Surya Dev) and Chhathi Maiya, with prayers offered for the health, prosperity, and longevity of one’s children.
Understanding the Significance of Chhath Puja
According to Hindu beliefs, during the month of Kartik, the Sun transitions into a lower astrological position, which is considered an ideal time for his worship to protect against health issues. The sixth day of this month (Shashti Tithi) is associated with the welfare and longevity of children, making Chhath Puja a key time for families, especially women, to pray for their loved ones.
Day 1: Nahay-Khay (November 5)
Chhath Puja begins with “Nahay-Khay,” a day dedicated to purity and preparation. On this day, devotees cleanse themselves both physically and spiritually, as they begin their journey of dedication and prayer. The day emphasizes purity, with devotees consuming a simple meal as part of their observance, setting a tone of discipline and simplicity.
Day 2: Kharna (November 6)
The second day, known as “Kharna” or “Lohanda-Kharna,” involves a strict fast, where devotees abstain from food and water for the entire day. In the evening, they break the fast with a special offering of rice pudding (kheer) made with cane juice, which is typically unsweetened. This kheer, along with other offerings, is shared with family and friends as a symbol of gratitude.
Day 3: Offering Arghya to the Setting Sun (November 6)
On the third day, devotees fast again and gather at riverbanks or water bodies to offer “Arghya” (a ritualistic offering) to the setting sun. This is considered a sacred ritual where special dishes, including a delicacy called “Thekua” and seasonal fruits, are presented as offerings to the Sun God. The Arghya is given with milk and water as a sign of devotion, and the act symbolizes the thankfulness for blessings received throughout the year.
Day 4: Offering Arghya to the Rising Sun (November 7)
The final day of Chhath Puja begins early in the morning when devotees offer Arghya to the rising sun. This marks the end of the fast and the completion of the ritual. The final Arghya is given at sunrise, after which devotees consume a special meal to break their fast and conclude the celebration.
Chhath Puja Preparations Across India
To accommodate the large numbers of devotees who will gather at riverbanks, particularly at the ghats along the Ganges, extensive preparations are being made. Local governments and community groups are ensuring that ghats are clean and safe for worshippers. In Delhi, for instance, officials, led by Chief Minister Atishi, have inspected various Chhath ghats to oversee final preparations.
Special Train Services for Chhath Puja
The Indian Railways has announced that 39 special trains will be operated during the Chhath Puja period to help accommodate the large influx of travelers returning to their hometowns for the festival. Key routes include trains from Anand Vihar to Saharsa Junction and Jaynagar, offering vital connectivity for people visiting family for the festival.
Other National and International Updates
On November 5, as Chhath Puja begins, the U.S. will also hold its presidential election. According to Indian time, voting is expected to start on Wednesday morning. This election sees a tight race between Republican candidate Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, with around 160 million Americans eligible to vote.
In India, the Supreme Court is expected to deliver a decision on the Allahabad High Court’s ruling, which declared parts of the UP Madrasa law unconstitutional. This verdict could have wide-reaching implications for the education system in the state.
Chhath Puja: A Celebration of Faith, Family, and Community
Chhath Puja represents more than just a ritual; it is a profound display of dedication, purity, and communal harmony. The rituals that devotees perform emphasize gratitude and respect for nature, family, and community. As millions come together to observe Chhath Puja, this festival unites people across regions, backgrounds, and beliefs in a shared act of devotion.