Chhath Puja starts today: Celebrating the Sun God and Renewal of Life

Chhath Puja, a vibrant and culturally rich festival, is one of the most ancient and revered Hindu festivals primarily celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and some parts of Nepal. It is dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and his consort Usha, signifying the power of the sun and its life-sustaining energy.

The festival is observed six days after Diwali, usually in October or November, on the sixth day of the lunar month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. It spans four days of rigorous rituals, prayers, fasting, and offerings to the sun, considered the source of all life on earth.

Rituals and Celebrations

Day 1: Nahay Khay (The First Day) Chhath Puja begins with devotees taking a dip in a holy river or a water body before preparing special meals. They clean their homes and utensils meticulously and consume only one meal, followed by a daylong fast.

Day 2: Kharna (The Second Day) On the second day, devotees observe a stringent fast without water or food until evening. After sunset, they break their fast by consuming kheer (sweetened rice) and fruits, prepared without salt, which is then offered to the deities.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (The Third Day) This day marks the main day of Chhath Puja. Devotees, mostly women, gather at the banks of rivers or ponds before sunrise. They offer prayers to the rising sun, singing hymns and performing elaborate rituals involving standing waist-deep in water. Offerings of fruits, sugarcane, and 'Thekua' (a traditional wheat-based sweet) are made to the Sun God.

Day 4: Usha Arghya (The Fourth Day) The final day of Chhath Puja, also known as 'Paarun', involves the morning offerings to the rising sun. Devotees conclude their fast after making their offerings and seek blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their families.

Significance

Chhath Puja holds immense significance in Hindu culture and traditions. It is a festival deeply rooted in reverence for the sun, expressing gratitude for sustaining life on earth. The festival symbolizes purity, self-restraint, and the continuity of life.

The rituals of Chhath Puja have a deep spiritual connection. Fasting, prayers, and the rigorous rituals are believed to purify the mind, body, and soul. The act of standing in water and offering prayers to the sun without consuming water or food for hours is considered a form of penance and an expression of unwavering faith.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its religious importance, Chhath Puja fosters a strong sense of community and togetherness. Families come together, irrespective of social or economic status, to celebrate this festival. The joyous atmosphere, melodious folk songs, and the vibrant rituals create a sense of unity and solidarity among people.

Chhath Puja is not just limited to India; it has gained recognition globally, with Indian diaspora celebrating it in various parts of the world. The festival's essence, with its focus on nature, spirituality, and cultural heritage, resonates with people beyond geographical boundaries.

Chhath Puja is a festival that celebrates the essence of life and the elements of nature. It is a beautiful amalgamation of faith, devotion, and tradition, emphasizing the significance of the sun in sustaining life and fostering unity among communities.

As the sun rises and sets, Chhath Puja remains a vibrant reminder of the timeless bond between humanity and nature, encouraging gratitude for the elements that nurture and sustain life on earth.