Chhath Puja 2024: A Devotional Journey of Gratitude and Blessings

Chhath Puja, celebrated this year from November 7 to November 10, is a festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya Devta) and Chhathi Maiya. Known for its devotion, discipline, and simplicity, Chhath Puja is observed with fasting, prayer, and offering arghya (water offering) to the sun at sunrise and sunset. This four-day festival, primarily observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal, holds immense spiritual significance.

Rituals and Days of Chhath Puja 2024

Day 1 – Nahay Khay (November 7): Devotees purify themselves by bathing in holy water and preparing a simple meal, which marks the start of the Chhath fasting ritual.

Day 2 – Kharna (November 8): Fasting devotees prepare a prasad of kheer, roti, and fruits, breaking their day-long fast only in the evening, after which a 36-hour nirjala (waterless) fast begins.

Day 3 – Sandhya Arghya (November 9): The main ritual, where devotees gather at riverbanks to offer prayers to the setting sun, expressing gratitude and seeking blessings for their families.

Day 4 – Usha Arghya (November 10): Devotees offer prayers to the rising sun, concluding their fast and marking the festival’s end with gratitude and joy.

Why We Celebrate Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is celebrated to honor Surya Devta (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, the goddess of the sun and fertility. The festival is rooted in the belief that the sun is the source of life and energy, providing nourishment and health. Here are some key reasons for its celebration:

Gratitude for Natural Resources: Devotees express gratitude to the sun for its vital role in sustaining life, agriculture, and the environment.

Health and Prosperity: People pray for the well-being, health, and prosperity of their families. It is believed that worshiping the sun during Chhath brings blessings for a fruitful and healthy life.

Cleansing and Purification: The rituals involved in Chhath Puja promote self-discipline, purification of the body and mind, and strengthen one’s faith.

Cultural Heritage: Chhath Puja is an integral part of the cultural identity for many communities in India and Nepal. It fosters a sense of unity and collective spirit among devotees.

Significance of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is unique because of its emphasis on purity, simplicity, and direct connection with nature. Worshipping the sun symbolizes the source of life, energy, and health. Devotees believe that observing these rituals can cleanse one’s mind, body, and soul, and bring prosperity, peace, and healing into their lives.

Celebration Highlights

Prasad and Offerings: Prasad is carefully prepared, usually including fruits, thekua, rice laddoo, and kheer. These items are offered to Surya Devta and distributed among devotees.

Traditional Songs and Music: Chhath songs echo through the communities, adding joy and cultural richness to the celebration.

Riverbank Gatherings: Observing sunrise and sunset by rivers or ponds symbolizes a humble connection with nature and is a powerful display of community unity and shared devotion.

Chhath Puja Wishes from Badhaai Do

As we celebrate Chhath Puja, may the blessings of Surya Devta and Chhathi Maiya fill your life with happiness, health, and abundance. Let’s honor this beautiful tradition together, spreading joy, faith, and peace. Chhath Puja ki badhaiyan from Badhaai Do! 🌅🙏