Chhath (Kartiki Chhath)

Chhath is one of the oldest Hindu festivals, mentioned in Rigveda and Mahabharata, where Draupadi and the Pandavas performed Surya worship. It is a festival of devotion, gratitude, and discipline, dedicated to Surya Dev (Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya (Goddess of Well-being & Offspring).

Also Known As: Surya Shashthi, Dala Chhath

Why It’s Celebrated & Its Significance:

1. Worship of the Sun God:

   • Surya Dev is considered the source of life, energy, and healing.

   • Offering Arghya (water oblation) at sunrise & sunset is believed to bring prosperity, good health, and longevity.

2. Chhathi Maiya & Child Blessings:

   • Devotees, especially women, pray to Chhathi Maiya for the well-being of children and family.

   • The festival is linked to fertility, protection, and nourishment.

3. Scientific & Yogic Connection:

   • Chhath rituals enhance immunity, detoxify the body, and improve mental discipline.

   • Fasting and sun exposure help in the production of Vitamin D and energy regulation.

How It’s Celebrated (Four-Day Rituals):

Chhath is a four-day festival with strict rituals, fasting, and prayers.

Day 1: Nahay Khay (Holy Bath & Purity)

• Devotees bathe in rivers (Ganga, Koshi, Karnali, etc.) and consume only satvik (pure) food after offering prayers.

• The meal includes kaddu (pumpkin), dal, and rice cooked on a clay stove with mango wood.

Day 2: Kharna (Fasting & Offering)

• A 24-hour Nirjala (waterless) fast begins.

• In the evening, a special prasad of jaggery kheer, chapati, and bananas is prepared and offered to Surya Dev & Chhathi Maiya before being consumed by the devotee.

• This marks the beginning of strict discipline and purity for the main rituals.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings to the Setting Sun)

• Fasting continues without water.

• Devotees gather at riverbanks or ponds and offer Arghya (water and milk) to the setting sun, standing in water.

• The prasad includes Thekua (a deep-fried wheat sweet), fruits, sugarcane, coconut, and rice laddus.

• The atmosphere is filled with devotional songs and folk music.

Day 4: Usha Arghya (Morning Offerings to the Rising Sun)

• Before sunrise, devotees return to the water to offer Arghya to the rising sun, completing their vows.

• The fast is broken by eating Prasad and distributing it among family and neighbors.

• Devotees express gratitude for the Sun’s energy and blessings.

Where It’s Celebrated in India:

• Bihar & Jharkhand – The grandest celebrations, especially in Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Ranchi.

• Uttar Pradesh – Celebrated in Varanasi, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Gorakhpur, Lucknow.

• Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, & Gujarat – Observed by Bihari & UP migrant communities.

Nepal (Madhesh Province, Kathmandu, Pokhara) – Major celebrations among Maithili and Bhojpuri communities.

Other Events & Festivals Related to Chhath :

1. Diwali – Chhath takes place six days after Diwali.

2. Makar Sankranti – Also involves Surya Dev worship and holy dips.

3. Chaiti Chhath – Similar Chhath in March-April (Chaitra month).

4. Pongal – Sun worship festival in Tamil Nadu.

5. Ratha Saptami – A Sun festival in Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka.