Chhath Puja 2024: Here¡¯s what we know about the date, rituals, and more
Chhath Puja, also known as Surya Shashti, is an ancient and super-special Hindu festival that¡¯s all about showing some serious love to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Goddess Chhathi Maiya. It's a big deal, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, where this four-day extravaganza is celebrated with a ton of devotion and festive vibes. Mark your calendars, because Chhath Puja 2024 is on November 5th.
Why do we celebrate Chhath Puja?
So, what¡¯s the buzz about? Chhath Puja is celebrated to honour the Sun, the ultimate life-giver who blesses us with health, prosperity, and all the good vibes. People believe that worshipping the Sun during this time ensures a long and healthy life, and it's not just for the locals. Folks from all over India and even parts of Nepal get involved to pay tribute to nature and the Sun.
Here¡¯s a breakdown of the Chhath Puja rituals, day-by-day:
Day 1: Nahaaye Khaaye ( Bath & Feast)
The festival kicks off with Nahaaye Khaaye, which literally means ¡°to bathe and eat.¡± Devotees start the day with a holy dip in rivers, ponds, or any nearby water source. After the ritual bath, they enjoy a simple, sattvic meal ¨C pure and clean food to kickstart the fasting period.
Day 2: Kharna (Fasting)
Day two brings the infamous Nirjala Vrat ¨C fasting without food or water! Devotees go the extra mile with this one, offering special prasad to Chhathi Maiya and distributing it among friends and family. It¡¯s all about cleansing the body and mind.
Day 3: Sandhya arghya (Sunset vibes)
This day is all about the evening Arghya, where devotees gather by the river or a water body and offer fruits, sweets, and other goodies to the setting Sun. The night is filled with devotional songs, and the Chhath Vrat Katha is recited, keeping the festive spirit alive.
Day 4: Usha arghya & paran (Sunrise gratitude & breaking the fast)??
The final day begins with Usha Arghya, where devotees offer their prayers to the rising Sun. Afterward, the fast is broken with ginger and jaggery, symbolising a fresh start and good health. It¡¯s the ultimate moment of gratitude for the blessings from Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.
With this, the Chhath puja comes to an end.
