Chhath Puja is more than just a festival; it embodies a living demonstration of devotion, tradition and respect for nature. Celebrated primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand and parts of Uttar Pradesh, the four-day festival has also gained popularity in other Indian states and among the global Indian diaspora. It is deeply rooted in mythological and cultural narratives, emphasizing both familial love and the worship of natural forces. The essence of Chhath Puja is a collective expression of gratitude and respect towards Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, symbolizing health, prosperity and harmony.

Mythological origins of Chhath Puja and role of Sita

Chhath Puja has a rich history intertwined with ancient epics and religious tales from the Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga. The festival is linked to prominent mythological figures such as Lord Rama and Sita. After their triumphant return from exile in Ayodhya, Sita is said to have performed the Chhath rituals in gratitude to the Sun God, a gesture that set a divine standard for future generations.
This act not only demonstrated his dedication but also highlighted the sacred nature of the festival, thus reinforcing its importance in Indian culture. Other legends, including the story of Surya’s son Karna, who offered ‘Arghya’ (a water offering) to the Sun daily, and Draupadi’s observance of Chhath during the exile of the Pandavas, reinforce the festival’s themes of resilience and faith. , and harmony with nature.

Chhath Puja 2024: Four-day devotional journey and significance

Nahay Khay – November 5, 2024

Chhath Puja begins with Nahay Khay on November 5, 2024. This first day focuses on self-purification, where devotees bathe in holy water and consume simple sattvic meals. This step is essential to prepare the body and mind for the days of fasting and devotion that follow.

Kharna – November 6, 2024

The second day, Kharna, observed on November 6, is marked by an intense day-long fast. Devotees abstain from food and water throughout the day and only break their fast after sunset with offerings made to the Sun God. The evening meal, shared with family and loved ones, is synonymous with dedication, discipline and spiritual purification.

Sandhya Arghya – November 7, 2024

November 7 marks Sandhya Arghya, the third and most important day of Puja. Devotees gather at river banks and water bodies to perform rituals at sunset. This act of offering “Arghya” to the setting sun represents humility, gratitude and a prayer for prosperity and well-being. The sight of worshipers standing in the water, holding platters of offerings, embodies the unity and shared devotion of the community.

Usha Arghya – November 8, 2024

The festival ends on November 8 with Usha Arghya. On this last day, the faithful offer their morning prayers to the rising sun, thus completing the cycle of worship. Morning rituals signify new beginnings and are believed to bring blessings for the health, happiness and general well-being of the family. This final act embodies the deep respect for nature and the divine, encapsulating the spirit of Chhath Puja as a celebration of devotion and communal harmony.

Chhath Puja is an ode to tradition

Chhath Puja is not just about spiritual devotion; it symbolizes community and family unity. Families, neighbors, and entire communities gather along rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, creating a shared space for collective prayer and celebration. This festival transcends its regional roots, with participation extending to states like West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and even internationally, attracting people who share a common admiration for the Sun God and the benevolence of nature.
Chhath Puja, through its rituals, teaches lessons of gratitude, unity and perseverance, where faith and love binds communities together under the life-giving rays of the Sun.

Chhath Puja 2024: Sunrise and Sunset Timings

According to Drik Panchang, here are the sunrise and sunset times for each day of Chhath Puja:

Chhath Puja 2024: Puja Timings