Chhath Puja is a special Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion, mainly in the northern regions of India, particularly Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Dedicated to the Sun God, Lord Surya, Chhath Puja is a four-day-long festival that usually takes place in October or November.

During Chhath Puja, devotees express their gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth and seek blessings for well-being, prosperity, and longevity. The festival involves various rituals performed near natural water bodies, such as rivers, ponds, or lakes. Devotees observe a strict fast and offer prayers to the rising and setting sun, with the main day known as “Surya Shashthi.”

Chhath Puja holds cultural significance, emphasizing the connection between humans and nature. The rituals involve the use of traditional songs, called Chhath Geet, and the preparation of special offerings, including thekua (a sweet delicacy), fruits, and sugarcane. The festival fosters a sense of community as families come together to celebrate, and it reflects the deep spiritual and environmental values in Indian culture.

Chhath Puja 2024 Date and Time

Facts About Chhath 2024

1. Sun Worship: Chhath Puja is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, Lord Surya. Devotees believe that offering prayers to the sun brings health, happiness, and prosperity.
2. Four-Day Celebration: Chhath Puja is observed over four days, with significant rituals performed on each day. The main day, known as Surya Shashthi, involves a series of rituals during sunrise and sunset.
3. Strict Fasting: Devotees observe a rigorous fast during Chhath Puja, abstaining from food and water for an extended period. This fasting period is believed to purify the mind and body.
4. Natural Water Bodies: The rituals of Chhath Puja are performed near natural water bodies, such as rivers, ponds, or lakes. Devotees take a dip in the water as part of the purification process.
5. Prayers for Well-being: People perform Chhath Puja to seek the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of their family members. It is considered a way to express gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth.
6. Chhath Geet: Traditional songs, known as Chhath Geet, are an integral part of the celebrations. These songs are sung during the rituals and reflect the cultural and spiritual essence of the festival.
7. Arghya: Devotees offer ‘Arghya’ to the setting and rising sun, which involves making offerings of water, milk, fruits, and other items. It is a symbol of respect and gratitude towards the Sun God.
8. Colorful Decorations: Homes and the areas around water bodies are adorned with colorful decorations during Chhath Puja. Rangoli, traditional motifs, and diyas (lamps) add to the festive ambiance.
9. Environmental Significance: Chhath Puja emphasizes the importance of a clean and natural environment. The rituals are performed outdoors, promoting a connection with nature.
10. Prasad Preparation: Devotees prepare special offerings, including thekua (a sweet dish), fruits, and sugarcane, to be offered to the Sun God. Thekua is a traditional delicacy made with wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee.
11. Community Participation: Chhath Puja is a community festival where families come together to perform rituals and share the joy of the occasion. It fosters a sense of unity and togetherness.
12. Cultural Diversity: While Chhath Puja is prominently celebrated in states like Bihar and Jharkhand, its popularity has spread to other parts of India and even globally. It reflects the cultural diversity and richness of Hindu traditions.

Santosh

Santosh Kumar is an editor at unfoldstuffs.com and a professional content writer. With years of experience he is passionate for creating engaging, informative and impactful topics.