What is Chhath Puja Festival
Chhath Puja Festival is celebrated in Karthik month on Shukla Shashthi, which is the sixth day of the month. This day is generally the sixth day after Diwali. So, this festival is called Chhath, which means six.
Another Chhath Puja Festival is celebrated in the month of Chaitra known as Chaiti Chhath. But Chhath Puja in the month of Karthik is celebrated on a wider scale.
This Pooja is native to the Indian States of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and the Madesh Region of Nepal. People who moved out of this area have spread the festival to regions beyond these states.
This Puja is dedicated to Lord Surya and his wife, Chaithi Maiyya. Lord Surya’s consort Usha and Pratyusha are also worshiped in this festival.
Story Behind Celebrating Chhath Puja Festival
Chhath Puja Festival has many stories revolving around it. It is believed that Chhath Puja has its earliest reference in Mahabharat. Lord Surya is worshiped on this day.
Lord Surya’s wife Goddess Chaithi or Chaithi Maiyya is also worshiped on this day. It is said that Draupadi and Pandavas of Hastinapur celebrated this day to unravel their lost kingdom.
It is also believed that Kunti Putra Karna started Chhath Puja to get blessings from Lord Surya and his wife Chaithi Maiyya. Karna was the ruler of the Bhagalpur region in Bihar. This Puja was celebrated by chanting a mantra from Rig Veda to worship Lord Surya (Sun God).
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Another folklore states that this Puja has a reference to Ramayana. It is said that Diwali is celebrated when Lord Ram returns to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile in the forest.
On the sixth day after Diwali, Ram Rajya was established. Lord Ram and Goddess Sita observed fasting on that day. The others worshiped Lord Surya. They were granted two sons, Luv and Kush as blessings.
As per Bhavishya Purna India, Egypt, and Iran have some connections. Maga, Bhojaka, or sakaldwipiya Brahmins are generally found in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand in India are originally from the west and have settled in India.
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This is narrated in a story of how these were brought to India and settled here. It is said that Samba, Krishna’s son, was stricken with leprosy. He worshiped Lord Surya to cure his leprosy.
Lord Surya was pleased with his devotion and cured him. In honor of Lord Surya, Samba built a temple at Mitravan on Chandrabhaga. He built Sambpura around the temple.
But no Brahmin was willing to come to the temple to perform rituals. Hence Samba brought eight families who were worshipping the sun. They were Maga or Sakaldwipiya Brahmins.
These Brahmins were given girls from Bhoja to marry. Hence, they were also called Bhojaka. It is believed that these Brahmins were spread from Egypt to Persia to Europe.
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They were priest to many kingdoms in India. It is also said that the Magadh Kingdom got its name from the Magas. They worshipped Lord Surya, which is not called Chhath Puja.
Over some time these Magis were washed from wet, but their knowledge was present in India.
It is believed that sages from the early Vedic period performed this Puja by exposing it directly to sunlight. These sages didn’t consume any food and took all their energy from the sun’s rays.
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Puja Ritual and Traditions of Chhath Puja Festival
This Chhath Puja Festival is generally followed by women known as Parvaitin. But men also can do this fasting. This is a four-day Puja, which is mainly followed by women. The first day is called Nahai Khai.
On the first day, women have to keep a day-long fast, generally without even consuming water. They have to take a dip in the river and pray to Lord Surya for a long period.
Special food is prepared on the first day as Prasad or sanctified food. The preparation of food has some guidelines.
One has to cook in mud or bronze utensils on a mud stove with mango wood being used for fire. This Prasad can be consumed once by the Parvaitins. The second day is referred to as Khara.
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On the second day, Parvaitins cook Prasad and consume some while after sunset to break the day-long fast. Parvaitins follow 36 hours of fast after this. The third day is Pahili Argha.
On the third day, Parvaitins cook a wholesome meal and offer these meals to the setting sun. All Parvaitin along with their families go to the river bank to offer Prasad or sanctified food.
Generally, parvaitin have to wear a turmeric yellow sari on this day. The fourth day is Dusri Argha. On the fourth day, Parvaitins goes to the river bank to offer Prasad and pray to the rising sun.
After prayer, Parvaiitns break their 36 hours of fast and return home. Relatives visit each other’s houses to share Prasad or sanctified food.
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Common Beliefs with Chhath Puja Festival
Image Source: Twitter
It is also believed that sages of that era restrained food and got energy from the rays of the sun. It is also said that Lord Surya is worshiped for giving energy and life.
Apart from religious beliefs and traditions, scientifically it is believed that the sun has the lowest ultraviolet rays.
Hence it is beneficial for humans. Chhath Puja is said to be the most environmentally friendly festival celebrated by Hindus.
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For the last day of Chhath Puja, all the roads are cleaned as all the Parvaitins walk barefoot along with their family to the river bed for a dip.
Women generally wear saffron-colored clothes for this festival. This festival is believed to take devotees to mental health.
The four-day fasting and healthy eating detoxifies the body and in turn, has biochemical changes.
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Special Food Items Prepared and Served on Chhath Puja Festival
During the Chhath Festival food is prepared from rice, wheat, dry fruit, fresh fruit, nuts, jaggery, coconuts, and lots of ghee. Food is prepared without any garlic, onion, and salt.
On the first day, Kaddu Bhath (Gourd and Rice) is prepared with Chana Dal. On the second day, Kheer and Chapati are prepared. The main food item for Chhath Puja is Thekua.
Thekua is made from whole wheat flour, sugar, or jaggery. For wholesome meals, poori and kaddu ki sabji are prepared.
This is one festival which has very healthy food prepared for the offering.
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14 Quotes of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja, a four-day festival dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya (the Sun Goddess), is a beautiful celebration of faith, devotion, and gratitude.
Here are some quotes that capture the essence of this magnificent festival, along with some captivating images:
- “May the rising sun on Chhath Puja usher in a new dawn of hope, happiness, and prosperity in your life.”
- “Let the warmth of Surya Dev’s rays fill your heart with love and your life with blessings.”
- “May the holy waters of the river cleanse your soul and wash away all negativity on this auspicious occasion.”
- “Chhath Puja is a time to celebrate the enduring power of faith and the unwavering devotion of the human spirit.”
- “May the sweet melody of the Chhathi Maiya songs fill your home with harmony and joy.”
- “Let the vibrant colors of the Chhath Puja celebrations brighten your life and fill it with optimism.”
- “Chhath Puja reminds us of the importance of perseverance and the strength we find within ourselves.”
- “May the blessings of Chhathi Maiya and Surya Dev be with you and your loved ones, always.”
- “Chhath Puja is a beautiful tapestry woven with tradition, devotion, and love. Let its magic touch your life and bring you closer to your divine self.”
- Chhath Puja Ka Pavan Parva. Hai Surya Dev Ki Puja Ka Parva.
- Karo Milke Surya Dev ko Pranama. Aur Bolo Sukh Shanti Dey Apaar. **Happy Chhath Puja**
- May this Chhath Puja bring. Blessings and happiness in your way, May all your dreams come true, And all evils shed away.**Happy Chhath Puja**
- C = chant, H = heaven, H = Holy, A = almighty, T = together, H =hallowed, P =pious, U =upbeat, J =jubilation, A =awesome, Happy Chhath Puja.
- Long live the tradition of Hindu culture, As the generations have passed by, Hindu culture is getting stronger and stronger, Let’s keep it up! Best Wishes for Chhath Puja…
I hope these quotes and images resonate with you and bring you the warmth and joy of Chhath Puja. May this festival be a time of renewal, blessings, and happiness for you and your loved ones.
Chhath Puja Festival Significance, Customs and Traditions: FAQ
What is the Chhath puja festival
Chhath Puja Festival is celebrated in Karthik month on Shukla Shashthi, which is the sixth day of the month. This day is generally the sixth day after Diwali. So, this festival is called Chhath, which means six.
This Puja is dedicated to Lord Surya and his wife, Chaithi Maiyya. Lord Surya’s consorts Usha and Pratyusha are also worshipped in this festival.
Chhath puja 2024 date, time and Muhurat
Thursday, November 7, 2024.
1. Sunrise on Chhath Puja Day – 06:38 AM
2. Shashthi Tithi begins at 12:41 AM on Nov 07, 2024
3. Sunset on Chhath Puja Day – 05:32 PM
4. Shashthi Tithi Ends at 12:34 AM on Nov 08, 2024
How to celebrate Chhath puja
1. On the first day women have to keep a day-long fast, generally without even consuming water. They have to take a dip in the river and pray to Lord Surya for a long period.
2. Special food is prepared on the first day as Prasad or sanctified food. The preparation of food has some guidelines.
3. One has to cook in mud or bronze utensils on a mud stove with mango wood being used for fire. This Prasad can be consumed once by the Parvaitins. The second day is referred to as Khara.
4. On the second day, Parvaitins cook Prasad and consume some while after sunset to break the day-long fast. Parvaitins follow 36 hours of fast after this. The third day is Pahili Argha.
5. On the third day, Parvaitins cook a wholesome meal and offer these meals to the setting sun. All Parvaitin along with their families go to the river bank to offer Prasad or sanctified food.
6. Generally, parvaitins have to wear a turmeric yellow sari on this day. The fourth day is Dusri Argha. On the fourth day, Parvaitins goes to the river bank to offer Prasad and pray to the rising sun.
7. After prayer, Parvaiitns break their 36 hours of fast and return home. Relatives visit each other’s houses to share Prasad or sanctified food.
Why Chhath Puja is celebrated
It is believed that sages of that era restrained food and got energy from the rays of the sun. It is also said that Lord Surya is worshipped for giving energy and life. Apart from religious beliefs and traditions, scientifically it is believed that the sun has the lowest ultraviolet rays.
Why do we celebrate Chhath puja
It is believed that sages of that era restrained food and got energy from the rays of the sun. It is also said that Lord Surya is worshipped for giving energy and life. Apart from religious beliefs and traditions, scientifically it is believed that the sun has the lowest ultraviolet rays.
How is Chhath puja celebrated
1. On the first day women have to keep a day-long fast, generally without even consuming water. They have to take a dip in the river and pray to Lord Surya for a long period.
2. Special food is prepared on the first day as Prasad or sanctified food. The preparation of food has some guidelines.
3. One has to cook in mud or bronze utensils on a mud stove with mango wood being used for fire. This Prasad can be consumed once by the Parvaitins. The second day is referred to as Khara.
4. On the second day, Parvaitins cook Prasad and consume some while after sunset to break the day-long fast. Parvaitins follow 36 hours of fast after this. The third day is Pahili Argha.
5. On the third day, Parvaitins cook wholesome meals and offer these meals to the setting sun. All Parvaitin along with their families go to the river bank to offer Prasad or sanctified food.
6. Generally, parvaitins have to wear a turmeric yellow sari on this day. The fourth day is Dusri Argha. On the fourth day, Parvaitins goes to the river bank to offer Prasad and pray to the rising sun.
7. After prayer, Parvaiitns break their 36 hours of fast and return home. Relatives visit each other’s houses to share Prasad or sanctified food.
How to wish Chhath puja
Parvaitins have to wear turmeric yellow sari on this day. The fourth day is Dusri Argha. On the fourth day, Parvaitins goes to the river bank to offer Prasad and pray to the rising sun. Pray for the health & prosperity of their family.
Is Chhath puja gazetted holiday
Yes,
Since 2015 Chhath Puja has been a gazetted holiday in India.
What is Chhath puja story
1. Chhath Puja Festival has many stories revolving around it. It is believed that Chhath Puja has its earliest reference in Mahabharat. Lord Surya is worshipped on this day.
2. Lord Surya’s wife Goddess Chaithi or Chaithi Maiyya is also worshipped on this day. It is said that Draupadi and Pandavas of Hastinapur celebrated this day to unravel their lost kingdom.
3. It is also believed that Kunti Putra Karna started Chhath Puja to get blessings from Lord Surya and his wife Chaithi Maiyya.
4. Karna was the ruler of Bhagalpur region in Bihar. This Puja was celebrated by chanting a mantra from Rig Veda to worship Lord Surya (Sun God).
5. Another folklore states that this Puja has a reference to Ramayana. It is said that Diwali is celebrated when Lord Rama returns to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile in the forest.
What is the importance of Chhath puja
It is believed that sages of that era restrained food and got energy from the rays of the sun. It is also said that Lord Surya is worshipped for giving energy and life.
Apart from religious beliefs and traditions, scientifically it is believed that the sun has the lowest ultraviolet rays.
Chhath puja 2024 Muhurat
Thursday, November 7, 2024.
1. Sunrise on Chhath Puja Day – 06:38 AM
2. Shashthi Tithi begins at 12:41 AM on Nov 07, 2024
3. Sunset on Chhath Puja Day – 05:32 PM
4. Shashthi Tithi Ends at 12:34 AM on Nov 08, 2024
Chhath puja 2025 date, time and Muhurat
Monday, October 27, 2025
1. Sunrise on Chhath Puja Day – 06:30 AM
2. Sunset on Chhath Puja Day – 05:40 PM
3. Shashthi Tithi Begins – 06:04 AM on Oct 27, 2025
4. Shashthi Tithi Ends – 07:59 AM on Oct 28, 2025
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