The series of religious festivals in India is very long and full of happiness. Under Sanatan Dharma, there are customs of celebrating different festivals in different ways. Following the Diwali festivities filled with the glow of lamps, the Chhath festival is celebrated with great devotion in the Purvanchal region. Many devotees go to their homes in their states on this holy festival. This festival is mainly celebrated with great reverence and devotion in the states of North India like Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and even in some parts of Nepal. But with the change of time, this great festival has become popular in many other places in the country and abroad. Many best wishes for this holy festival of Chhath from the Paras Parivaar. This festival of Chhath, is not only limited to the worshiping of gods. It also introduces the restraint, sacrifice, and devotion of the devotees.

Importance of Chhath Puja and Mythology

According to the main beliefs, the Chhath festival is dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev and his sister Chhathi Maiya. According to Paras Bhai Guruji, these beliefs are also given top priority. This festival is mainly celebrated as the worship of the Sun and nature. The sun is the only life provider on this earth, it is worshiped as a symbol of energy and a protector of health. There are many incidents related to Chhath in the mythology of Hindu Dharma. It is said that during the period of Mahabharata, Kunti also got her elder son Karan by worshiping the Surya Dev. Apart from this, the story of King Priyavrat is also famous, who gave life back to his son by worshiping the Sun.

Specialties and rituals of the festival

This holy and great festival lasts for a total of 4 days. In which fasting and worship of the Surya Dev are done together according to the days. Cleanliness and purity are taken care of in this entire process. This fast has been given the status of a very difficult fast.

First day: This day is called Nahai Khay. On this day devotees perform a sacred bath. Also, on this day, the purity and sanctity of their food are taken care of.

Second day: This day is called Kharna.This whole day is dedicated to tough fasting. In the evening, a special prasad kheer is organized on this day, which is jaggery kheer.

Third day: This day is said to be the most important day of Chhath. People offer the pure Arghya to the evening Sun. At the time of arghya, arghya is offered to Surya Dev by standing in a water source like a river, pond, etc. at the time of sunset.

Fourth day: The fourth day marks the conclusion of Chhath. On this final morning, devotees offer arghya to the rising sun.

Spiritual glory of Chhath Puja

This fast is observed on the sixth day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik. Chhath Puja has a special ritual of worshiping nature. This festival gives a message to everyone that one can be completely connected with natural elements by worshiping them. Through the Chhath festival, the sacrifice, restraint, and dedication of those who celebrate this festival can be understood. Devotees who observe this fast, get a golden opportunity to purify their soul.

According to Paras Bhai Ji, even though the rituals of Chhath Puja are very simple, it is considered very difficult to follow this fast. All Mother’s pray to Chhathi Maiya for the long and Happy life of their children. 

Environmental Message of Chhath Puja

No artificial decorations, puja materials or firecrackers are used in Chhath Puja, which makes it environmentally friendly. All the materials are organic, and Hindu Dharma reflects harmony with nature. This festival teaches us to establish harmony with nature and fulfill our responsibility towards the earth.