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Chhath Puja
Devotees gathered at a pond to worship the sun god Surya and his sister Chhathi Maiya in Janakpurdham, Madhesh Province, Nepal
Devotees gathered at a pond to worship the sun god Surya and his sister Chhathi Maiya in Janakpurdham, Madhesh Province, Nepal (2008)
Also called
  • Chhaith
  • Chhath Parva
  • Chhath Puja
  • Dala Chhath
  • Dala Puja
  • Surya Shashthi
Observed byIndians and Nepalese Tharus
TypeCultural, historical, religious
SignificanceVeneration of the sun god Surya and his sister Chhathi Maiya
Date25 October – 28 October (2025)
2024 dateTuesday, 5 November – Friday, 8 November
FrequencyAnnual
Chhath Puja at Chaudhary Pokhair in Basuki Bihari town of Bihar

Chhath is an ancient Indo-Nepalese Hindu festival, native to eastern India and southern Nepal.[1] It is celebrated,[2] especially in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand,West Bengal and Purvanchal;[3][4] and Koshi, Gandaki, Bagmati, Lumbini, and Madhesh provinces of Nepal.[5][6][7][8] In major urban centres like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Janakpur, and Kathmandu, the Indian and Nepali diaspora actively participates in celebrating Chhath, preserving their cultural heritage.[9][10][11][12] The festival is also celebrated by the diaspora[13][14] in countries such as the United States, Australia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, Mauritius, Japan, and the United Kingdom. [15]

During Chhath Puja, prayers are dedicated to the solar deity, Surya, to express gratitude for the blessings of life on Earth and to seek the fulfilment of personal wishes.[16] The Hindu goddess Chhathi Maiya (or Chhathi Mata)—the sixth form of Prakriti and Surya's sister—is also worshipped during the festival. It is celebrated for six days after Deepavali or Tihar, until the sixth day of the lunar month of Kartika (October or November) in the Hindu calendar (Vikram Samvat), which is why it is called 'Surya Shashti Vrata'.[17][18][19] The rituals are observed over three nights and four days,[20] and include holy bathing, fasting, abstaining from drinking water as a vrata (devotion), standing in water, and offering prasada (prayer offerings of food) and arghya to the rising and setting of the Sun.[21] Some devotees also perform a prostration march as they head towards the riverbanks.[22] All devotees prepare similar prasada and offerings.[23][24]

Traditional Food and Offerings

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Chhath Puja is also marked by the preparation and offering of a variety of traditional and sattvic (pure and vegetarian) dishes that are cooked without onion or garlic. These food items hold cultural and religious importance, often passed down through generations.

Four of the most important traditional prasadas (offerings) offered during Chhath Puja are:

  1. Thekua – A crispy, sweet snack made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, then deep-fried. Thekua is the most iconic offering of Chhath Puja.[25]
  2. Rasabali – A traditional dessert made from flattened rice soaked in sweetened milk, flavored with cardamom and dry fruits.
  3. Kasar (Laddoo) – Made with powdered rice or wheat flour and jaggery, these laddoos are shaped into small balls and are considered a holy offering.[26]
  4. Rice Laddu (Peethha) – A steamed or fried dumpling filled with jaggery and coconut, especially common in Bihar and Eastern UP.[27]

These recipes are not only offerings but also symbolize purity, devotion, and cultural richness associated with the Chhath festival.

Environmentalists have claimed that the festival of Chhath is one of the most eco-friendly religious festivals.[28][29]

Significance

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Chhath Puja is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, as it is thought that the sun is visible to every being and is the basis of life of all creatures on Earth.[30] Chhathi Maiya (or Chhathi Mata) is also worshipped on this day. According to Vedic astrology, Chhathi Maiya grants children long life and good health by shielding them from illnesses and diseases.[31]

Description

[edit]
Rani Pokhari, a 17th-century pond in Kathmandu decorated with lights at night for Chhath celebration
Chhath celebration (2015) at Rani Pokhari, a 17th-century pond in Kathmandu
Chhath celebrations happening at a temporary pond made for devotees in Shahdara, Delhi

Chhath Puja is a folk festival that lasts four days. It starts with Kartik Shukla Chaturthi and ends with Kartik Shukla Saptami. Chhath is celebrated twice a year:[32]

  1. Chaiti Chhath – observed in the Chaitra month of Vikram Samvat.[33]
  2. Kartik Chhath – celebrated at a very large scale in the Kartika month of Vikram Samvat.[34]

The main worshippers, called parvaitin (transl. 'devotees', from Sanskrit parva, meaning 'occasion' or 'festival'), are usually women. However, men also observe this festival as Chhath is not a gender-specific festival.[35] The parvaitin pray for the well-being of their family, and for the prosperity of their children.

Nahaay khaay (day 1)

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On the first day of Chhath Puja, the parvaitin must take a holy bath, after which the entire house, its surroundings, and pathways to the ghat are thoroughly cleaned. Parvaitin usually cook sattvik lauki bhaat (bottle gourd and Bengal gram lentil, with Arva rice), which is served in the afternoon to the deity as bhog (consecrated food). This initiates the festival. The food is then eaten by the parvaitin to protect the mind from thoughts of vengeance; it is the parvaitin's the last meal during the festival.[36]

Kharna / Rasiaav-roti / Lohanda (day 2)

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Kharna, also known as Rasiaav-roti or Lohanda, is the second day of Chhath Puja.[citation needed] On this day, as an act of worship, devotees do not drink even a single drop of water. In the evening, they eat gur ke kheer (kheer made of jaggery), called rasiaav, together with roti.[37]

Sandhya arghya (day 3)

[edit]
Indoor setup used for offerings

This day is spent by preparing the prasada (food offerings) at home, which often consist of thekua (cookies), rice laddu sweets, khajuria, tikri, kasar, and fruits (mainly sugarcanes, sweet lime, coconut, banana, and seasonal fruits) offered in small bamboo baskets.[38] The food is strictly vegetarian and is cooked without salt, onions, or garlic. Emphasis is placed on maintaining the purity of the food.[39]

In the evening, the entire household accompanies the devotee to a riverbank, pond, or other large body of water to make the arghya offerings to the setting sun. Where there is no river or pond, an indoor setup such as a tank or fountain is used. In certain places there are restrictions on using beaches for puja.[40] Besides the devotees and their friends and family, other participants and onlookers help and receive the worshipper's blessings.

When making arghya, Gangajal water is offered to Surya, and Chhathi Maiya is worshipped with the prasada. After the worship of the Sun God, participants sing Chhath songs in the night and read the Vrat katha.[41]

After returning home, devotees perform the ritual of kosi bharai together with other family members. They tie together 5–7 sugarcanes to form a mandap beneath which 12–24 diya (lamps) are burnt and thekua and seasonal fruits are offered. The same ritual is repeated the next morning between 3 am and 4 am, and afterward the devotees offer arghya or other offerings to the rising sun.

Usha arghya (day 4)

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At dawn on the last day of Chhath Puja, worshippers travel to the riverbank to offer arghya to the rising sun. After making this holy offering, parents pray to Chhatti Maiya for their child's protection as well as the happiness and peace of their whole family. After worship, followers participate in the Paran or Parana rite, completion of their fast with a small amount of prasada and water. This rite emphasises the connection between family well-being and divine favours, serving as a symbol of thanksgiving and spiritual closure.

Rituals and traditions

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In some communities, once a family member starts performing Chhath Puja, they are duty-bound to perform it every year and to pass it on to the following generations. The festival is skipped only if there is a death in the family that year. If the person stops performing the ritual on any particular year, it stops permanently and one cannot resume it. In other communities, this is not mandatory.

  • Chhath celebration at Gangi River in Arrah
    Chhath celebration at Gangi River in Arrah
  • Chhath Puja worship material
    Chhath Puja worship material
  • Woman praying during Chhath
    Woman praying during Chhath
  • Women waiting with prasada for offerings
    Women waiting with prasada for offerings
  • View of decorated Ghadiarwa pond on the occasion of Chhath festival, Birgunj, Nepal
    View of decorated Ghadiarwa pond on the occasion of Chhath festival, Birgunj, Nepal
  • Chhath Puja at Inaruwa, Sunsari District, Koshi Province
    Chhath Puja at Inaruwa, Sunsari District, Koshi Province
  • Sandhya Ghat at Jhim River, located between Malangwa and Brahmapuri, Sarlahi (November 2021)
    Sandhya Ghat at Jhim River, located between Malangwa and Brahmapuri, Sarlahi (November 2021)
  • Chhath Puja celebration at Azimganj
    Chhath Puja celebration at Azimganj

History and associated legends

[edit]
Deo Surya Mandir in Deo, Bihar, India

Chhath has been mentioned in both the major Indian epics. In the Ramayana, when Lord Rama and Mata Sita returned to Ayodhya, people celebrated Deepavali, and on its sixth day the Ramarajya (lit. 'Kingdom of Rama') was established. On this day Rama and Sita fasted, and Surya Shashthi and Chhath Puja was performed by Mata Sita. Hence, she was blessed with Lava and Kusha as sons.

In Champaran (Bihar, India) and Madhesh Province (Nepal), it is a belief that after leaving Ayodhya, Sita stayed in Valmiki Ashram located on the edge of the Narayani (Gandaki) river in Chitwan district, on the India–Nepal border. During that time, she celebrated Chhath Mahaparva in Nepal.[42]

In the Mahabharata, Chhath Puja was performed by Kunti after she (and the Pandavas) escaped from Lakshagriha.[43] It is also believed that Karna, the son of Surya and Kunti, was conceived after Kunti performed Chhath Puja. Draupadi is also said to have performed the Puja for the Pandavas to win the Kurukshetra War. It is believed that Draupadi performed Chhath Puja near a spring in Nagdi village of Ranchi. In this village today, the festival is performed near this spring, not the river or pond.[44][45]

The Brahma Vaivarta Purana mentions that Chhathi Maiya is worshipped during the Chhath festival.

According to another legend, King Priyavrata, son of first Manu Svayambhu, was unhappy because he had no children. To remedy this, Kashyapa asked him to do a yajna. Shortly after, a son was born to Queen Malini; however, the baby was born dead. Following the stillbirth, the king and his family were heartbroken. Finding sympathy for the royal family, Mata Shashthi revealed herself in the sky. When the king prayed to her, she spoke, saying: "I am Chhathi Maiya the sixth form of Prakriti. I protect all the children of the world and give the blessings of children to all childless parents." After this, the goddess blessed the lifeless child with her hands, so that he came to life. Thankful for Shashthi Devi's grace, the king worshipped the goddess. It is believed that after this puja, this festival became a worldwide celebration.[citation needed]

It is also believed that there was an ashram (hermitage) of the rishi Kashyapa and Aditi in the Buxar region. Mata Aditi gave birth to Surya as a son on the sixth day of Kartika. Surya is also called Aditya because he is the son of Aditi. For this reason, Chhath Puja is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Surya and the month of Kartika is considered a holy month throughout the year.[46]

In Munger region, the festival is known for its association with Sita manpatthar (or Sita Charan; lit. 'Sita's footsteps'). It is believed that the goddess Sita performed Chhath festival in Munger. Sitacharan Temple, situated on a boulder in the middle of the Ganges River in Munger, is the main center of public faith regarding the Chhath festival.[47]

References

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Further reading

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Chhath

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Chhath Puja, also known as Chhath Parva, is an ancient and vibrant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, , and his consort Usha (Chhathi Maiya), symbolizing gratitude for the sustenance of life on . Primarily observed in the eastern Indian states of , , and , as well as among the Madhesi community in , the festival spans four consecutive days during the lunar month of Kartik, typically falling six days after in late or early . It emphasizes environmental purity and communal harmony, with no idols or priests involved, making it one of the most egalitarian and eco-friendly Hindu observances. Devotees, especially married women known as vratin, undertake strict fasts without water for up to 36 hours and perform rituals at riverbanks or water bodies to seek blessings for family health, prosperity, longevity, and protection from ailments. The origins of Chhath Puja trace back to the Vedic period, with roots in ancient sun worship practices that highlight the sun's role in health and agriculture. According to legends from the Ramayana, the festival is linked to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, who observed similar fasts and rituals after their 14-year exile to propitiate the Sun God for their well-being and the birth of their sons, Luv and Kush. In the Mahabharata, Karna, the son of Surya and king of Anga (modern-day Bihar and parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh), is said to have performed these rituals to gain strength and devotion, further embedding the practice in the region's folklore. Another ancient legend from the Puranas attributes the festival's practices to King Priyavrata, son of the first Manu, who, distressed by childlessness, was advised by sage Kashyapa to observe Chhath rituals, leading to blessings from Chhathi Maiya for progeny. Over time, Chhath has evolved from a localized Vedic rite into a symbol of Bihar's cultural identity, fostering inter-religious bonhomie as people from diverse backgrounds participate in its public celebrations. The rituals of Chhath Puja unfold over four days—Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya—emphasizing purity, devotion, and natural harmony through , preparation of offerings like , and arghya (libations) to the rising and setting sun at water bodies. These practices not only invoke divine favor for , , and but also promote scientific benefits like absorption from early morning sun exposure and community bonding through shared feasts.

Significance

Religious Importance

Chhath Puja centers on the devotion to Surya, the Sun God, revered as the source of all life and energy, and Chhathi Maiya, the benevolent goddess embodying purity and protection, often identified with Usha, the Vedic dawn deity. Devotees believe that propitiating these deities through dedicated worship grants health, longevity, prosperity, and safeguards against malevolent forces, fostering physical and spiritual vitality for the family. This veneration underscores the festival's role in expressing gratitude for the sun's life-sustaining rays while seeking divine intervention for well-being. The of Chhath emphasizes rigorous , or vrata, primarily observed by women to ensure the and of their loved ones, symbolizing and unwavering commitment. Central to this devotion is the principle of , or ritual purity, attained through ceremonial bathing in to cleanse impurities and a strict vegetarian regimen that purifies the body and mind, aligning the devotee with cosmic harmony. These acts of reinforce the festival's of and ethical living, drawing participants closer to divine benevolence. Rooted in ancient Vedic traditions, Chhath reflects solar worship extolled in the , where hymns honor as the maintainer of cosmic order and vitality, prescribing offerings like arghya for renewal and submission to divine will. As a cornerstone of folk , it integrates these scriptural elements with indigenous practices, promoting an egalitarian and ecologically attuned spirituality accessible to all, irrespective of or status. During arghya rituals, devotees recite specific vows and mantras, such as the —"Om Bhaskaraya Vidmahe Mahadyutikaraya Dhimahi Tanno Suryah Prachodayat"—to invoke blessings and affirm their pledges for familial harmony.

Cultural and Social Role

Chhath Puja underscores the pivotal role of women as leaders in the observance, where they undertake rigorous fasting and rituals to ensure and unity, often embodying matriarchal within predominantly patriarchal societies in and eastern . Married women, widows, and even men participate as vratin (devotees), but women's central involvement highlights their spiritual agency and the transmission of cultural knowledge across generations, fostering household cohesion. This leadership extends to marginalized communities, where women assert spiritual equality, challenging traditional hierarchies through devotion. The festival's communal gatherings at river ghats exemplify social harmony, drawing diverse groups to shared spaces for collective worship and reinforcing bonds across castes and classes. In , these events involve pre-festival cleaning of riverbanks and water bodies, promoting alongside unity, as families and neighbors collaborate irrespective of . Such practices cultivate a sense of belonging, transforming ghats into vibrant hubs of interaction that bridge urban and rural divides. Deeply embedded in the regional identity of , , and eastern , Chhath symbolizes resilience amid socio-economic challenges, serving as a secular celebration accessible to all castes and creeds without exclusionary barriers. It reflects the cultural pride of these areas, uniting migrants in communities and evoking a shared heritage of simplicity and austerity that transcends religious divides. In the 2020s, Chhath has increasingly addressed modern social issues like , with campaigns urging eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable baskets and clay lamps to minimize contamination. initiatives in , including zero-waste setups at ghats by municipal corporations, alongside NGO pleas for green immersions, highlight efforts to sustain the festival's environmental harmony amid rising urban pressures. These measures underscore the festival's evolving role in promoting sustainable community living.

History and Origins

Historical Development

Chhath's historical roots lie in ancient solar worship practices of the , with references in texts like the highlighting the sun's role in health and agriculture. The festival is referenced in the ancient epic , where the character , son of the Sun God , is depicted as performing observances akin to Chhath to gain strength and prowess before battles. These early connections also link Chhath to broader Kartik-month festivals honoring solar deities in agrarian societies of eastern . During the medieval period, Chhath spread across the Magadh region of through the influence of movements, which emphasized devotional practices to deities like , and under the patronage of local kingdoms that integrated folk solar traditions into regional culture. This expansion is documented in 16th- to 19th-century texts from , reflecting its evolution from tribal and agrarian rituals to a more structured community observance amid the socio-religious shifts of the era. In the colonial era, Chhath faced suppression alongside other indigenous festivals under British policies that marginalized local customs, yet it endured as a resilient expression of among communities in and neighboring areas. Post-independence, the festival experienced a revival, gaining formal recognition as a major state event in from the 1980s onward, symbolizing regional pride and unity. In the 20th and 21st centuries, Chhath's observance has expanded significantly, with official holidays declared in , (since its formation in 2000), , and starting in the mid-2000s and 2010s, reflecting its growing national footprint beyond eastern . As of 2025, the Indian government is actively pursuing a multinational of Chhath for UNESCO's list, with consultations involving countries like the UAE, , and the , highlighting its eco-friendly practices and cross-border observance in and .

Associated Legends and Myths

According to legends from the , Chhath Puja is linked to Lord and , who observed the fast and rituals after their 14-year exile upon returning to . Advised by sages to propitiate the Sun God for atonement after killing and to ensure their well-being, Sita's devotion is said to have led to the birth of their sons, Luv and Kush, emphasizing themes of gratitude, purification, and family prosperity. One prominent legend associating Chhath with the involves , who, after the ' exile and hardships, was advised by the sage Dhaumya to perform Chhath Puja dedicated to Suryadev to regain strength, power, and protection for her husbands' victory in the impending war. This narrative underscores the festival's role in invoking for triumph over adversity and safeguarding devotees. Chhathi Mai, revered as the sixth manifestation of the goddess Prakriti and believed to be Surya's sister or an embodiment of Usha (the dawn), features in myths where she intervenes to save devotees from calamities, particularly those related to progeny and health. In one key tale from the , the childless Queen Malini encounters a divine figure in the form of (or Shashti), who reveals herself as the protector of children and instructs the queen to worship her alongside the sun god through Chhath rituals; upon observance, Malini conceives and delivers a healthy son, highlighting Chhathi Mai's benevolence in granting and averting infertility-related sorrows. Another variant recounts how Chhathi Mai resurrects the deceased infant of King Priyavrat, restoring joy to the royal household and emphasizing her power to shield families from loss and misfortune. In Bihar's regional folktales, Chhath intertwines with stories of river goddesses, such as those portraying the Ganga or local deities as allies of Chhathi Mai in purifying waters and resolving natural disruptions; for instance, narratives describe rituals during solar eclipses where offerings to the sun and Chhathi Mai appease cosmic forces, preventing prolonged darkness and ensuring the river's life-sustaining flow for agrarian communities. These tales, rooted in oral traditions of the Gangetic plains, portray Chhath as a communal appeal to energies for ecological harmony and protection against celestial anomalies. Symbolically, elements like the banana tree in Chhath offerings represent and abundance, embodying Lord Vishnu's grace and the earth's regenerative potential, while the overall rituals symbolize the maintenance of cosmic balance through devotion to solar and maternal deities, aligning human life with natural cycles of renewal and protection.

Observance and Rituals

Preparation and Naivedya

The preparation for Chhath Puja commences with the nahaay ritual, a purifying bath taken by devotees in holy rivers, ponds, or clean water sources to cleanse the body and mind ahead of the period. This initial immersion symbolizes spiritual renewal and is performed early in the morning, often by the entire family to foster collective purity. Where access to natural water bodies is limited, devotees may conduct the bath at home using , emphasizing simplicity and devotion. These efforts extend to , particularly in post-2010s observances, where communities actively clean riverbanks and water bodies, restrict synthetic materials, and promote biodegradable alternatives to plastics, reinforcing Chhath's ethos of . Central to the preparatory phase is the making of naivedya, the sacred first meal that sets the tone for the festival's dietary observances. This meal is prepared strictly as sattvic vegetarian food, excluding , garlic, salt on certain preparatory elements, and any non-vegetarian items, to uphold purity; common dishes include rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables cooked in earthen pots over wood fires to avoid modern contaminants. The cooking process is meticulous, ensuring no artificial additives or spices are used, as this naivedya nourishes the body while invoking divine blessings for the upcoming fasts. Family members play a vital role in these preliminaries, collectively cleaning homes thoroughly to create a sanctified environment free of impurities, and selecting essential puja items such as soops ( baskets) for holding offerings and thaals (plates) for arranging them, blending tradition with practicality. In some regions, alternatives to traditional materials have gained popularity for durability while maintaining ceremonial aesthetics.

Nahay Khay (Day 1)

Nahay Khay, the first day of Chhath Puja, falls on Kartik Shukla , the sixth day of the bright half of the Kartik , typically observed in or . This day initiates the four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, emphasizing purity and devotion. Devotees, particularly women known as vratis, begin the day before dawn with a holy bath in a nearby river, pond, or natural water body, such as the Ganga or Kosi. This ritual dip symbolizes physical and spiritual cleansing, washing away impurities to prepare the body and mind for the subsequent fasts and offerings. Participants often bring sacred water home from the bathing site, using it to maintain the sanctity of household preparations. On this day, devotees also take a sankalp, or , to observe the entire Chhath rituals with dedication and . Following the bath, the vratis prepare and consume a simple sattvic meal known as khay, marking the last full meal before the rigors of commence. The meal consists of rice, chana dal, bottle gourd (lauki), and seasonal greens, cooked solely in the without onions, , or any tamasic ingredients to uphold purity. This vegetarian repast is shared with family members after seeking their blessings, reinforcing communal bonds and setting a tone of . Starting from Nahay Khay, participants strictly avoid non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and other intoxicants to cultivate self-discipline and spiritual focus throughout the festival.

Kharna (Day 2)

Kharna, the second day of Chhath Puja, is marked by a strict nirjala vrat, where devotees, particularly women, observe a full-day fast without food or water from sunrise until sunset to purify the body and mind. This fast emphasizes devotion and discipline, building spiritual resolve for the subsequent days of the festival. In the evening, after sunset, the fast is broken with a simple meal of gur kheer (jaggery-sweetened ) and or , known as rasiya or rasiaav-roti, which serves as prasad offered to Chhathi Mai. The evening puja is conducted at , involving the lighting of diyas (oil lamps) and the offering of this prasad to Chhathi Mai, accompanied by the singing of traditional lokgeet (folk songs) that invoke blessings for family well-being. Following the puja, devotees touch the feet of elders to seek blessings and distribute the prasad among family members and the community, fostering a of unity and reverence. This day is also regionally referred to as Lohanda in some areas of and eastern , with minor variations in the exact timing of the evening rituals based on local customs, though the core practices remain consistent.

Sandhya Arghya (Day 3)

On the third day of Chhath Puja, known as Sandhya Arghya, devotees continue the nirjala fast initiated after the previous evening's Kharna, abstaining from both food and as part of the overall 36-hour vrat, with participants focusing on spiritual reflection throughout the day as they prepare offerings. This period of discipline symbolizes purification and devotion to the Sun , , and his consort, Chhathi Maiya. As evening approaches, families proceed to nearby bodies such as rivers, ponds, or ghats, where the fast reaches its climax with the sandhya arghya ritual—an offering of and prasad to . Devotees, primarily women but including men and family members, wade into shallow waters up to their waists, holding trays called soops filled with seasonal fruits like bananas and apples, (wheat flour sweets fried in and sweetened with ), sugarcane sticks, and sometimes coconuts or vermilion-smeared items. These offerings are raised towards the western horizon in a of and , with the trays partially immersed in the to symbolize the merging of earthly devotion with divine , performed precisely at sunset to honor the sun's life-sustaining rays. The atmosphere at the ghats transforms into a communal spectacle of , with groups of devotees folk Chhath geets—traditional devotional songs in regional languages like Bhojpuri or Maithili—that recount myths of gratitude to the sun and pleas for and . These melodies, passed down through generations, foster a sense of unity and cultural continuity among participants. After the arghya, the fast continues unbroken, and many families maintain all-night vigils either at the ghats or nearby, staying awake through prayer, storytelling from Chhath lore, and continued to prepare spiritually for the following dawn . In contemporary observance, health experts recommend precautions for the demanding fast, such as adequate hydration in the lead-up days, avoiding exertion during peak heat, and consulting physicians for individuals with conditions like or to mitigate risks like or . These guidelines blend traditional rigor with modern awareness, ensuring safer participation while preserving the ritual's essence.

Usha Arghya (Day 4)

Usha Arghya marks the culmination of Chhath Puja on its fourth day, where devotees perform the final offering to the rising sun, known as Usha, at dawn. This begins well before sunrise, with participants gathering at riverbanks, ponds, or other water bodies, standing in shallow water while facing east. They offer arghya—libations of water mixed with milk—along with fruits, sweets like , , and seasonal produce arranged in bamboo baskets called sohlri, accompanied by devotional songs and prayers to the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya. The significance of Usha Arghya lies in its symbolism of renewal, for life's sustenance, and the triumph of over darkness, completing the solar worship cycle that began with the previous day's sunset offerings. It represents spiritual purification and the promise of , , and family , as the first rays of the sun are believed to infuse energy. After the arghya, the vratins, who have observed a rigorous 36-hour nirjala fast, break it through the parana by consuming prasad—typically the offered fruits and sweets—thus concluding their vows. Following the parana, the prasad is distributed among family members, neighbors, and the broader , fostering a sense of shared devotion and unity. Devotees then return home for a simple feast prepared from the remaining offerings, emphasizing sattvic foods. The festival ends with the cleaning of puja items, such as washing the sohlri baskets and discarding used leaves in water bodies, to maintain ritual purity. Post-festival customs often include abstaining from non-vegetarian food, , and for several days to prolong the spiritual cleanse.

Traditional Foods and Offerings

Key Offerings to Deities

The primary offerings to the deities during Chhath Puja consist of , a crispy sweet prepared from , , and , alongside fruits such as bananas and sugarcane stalks, and seasonal vegetables like water chestnuts and apples, all meticulously arranged on a soop, a traditional tray symbolizing purity and connection to . These items are offered to the Sun God () and Chhathi Maiya to express gratitude for sustenance and prosperity, with thekua embodying the sweetness and endurance of life, fruits representing fertility and abundance, and vegetables signifying the earth's nurturing bounty. The offerings are arranged in thaals (decorative plates) or directly on the soop for the arghya rituals, where vibrant colors from fresh produce and the deliberate placement of items hold deep spiritual significance, invoking divine blessings for health and harmony. Preparation emphasizes handmade authenticity, using rock salt instead of common salt and cooking on earthen stoves to maintain ritual sanctity and avoid any impurities that could disrupt the devotional intent. In the 2020s, eco-friendly practices have gained prominence, with devotees increasingly opting for seasonal, locally sourced produce in these offerings to reduce transportation-related waste and support , aligning the festival's ancient reverence for nature with contemporary environmental consciousness. Key taboos reinforce the offerings' purity, prohibiting the use of metal utensils like or silver during preparation and presentation—instead favoring clay or —and strictly banning store-bought items, as all prasad must be freshly made at home to honor the deities without external contamination. These practices, observed during the Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya on the third and fourth days, underscore the festival's emphasis on unadulterated devotion.

Regional Culinary Variations

Chhath Puja's culinary traditions exhibit distinct regional flavors, adapting core offerings like and seasonal fruits to local ingredients and preferences. In and , remains the emblematic sweet, crafted from , , , and spices like and , then deep-fried into crisp, patterned discs symbolizing devotion. , roasted , features prominently in nutritious preparations such as sattu makhana or sharbat, offering protein-rich refreshment for observers and reflecting the region's agrarian emphasis on wholesome, satvik foods. In , preparations lean toward sweeter, more indulgent variations, incorporating —soft, pancake-like fritters made from a batter of , , and bananas, fried and immersed in or syrup for a caramelized finish. Elaborate rice dishes, such as rasiyaw (a creamy of rice cooked in and sweetened with ), add textural depth and are often garnished with nuts, enhancing the festival's celebratory meals while maintaining purity through natural sweeteners. also appears here, sometimes as parathas or drinks, underscoring shared Bhojpuri influences across borders. Nepal's region, with its cultural ties to , integrates local produce into Chhath offerings, emphasizing seasonal fruits like bananas, , and water chestnuts alongside rice laddus and for arghya rituals. Sweets such as kasar—a quick-mix of , , , and —provide a lighter, fruit-infused alternative, while some communities opt for shorter fasts of one or two days to accommodate regional customs. Since the mid-2010s, health-conscious adaptations have emerged, particularly in urban areas, with low-sugar thekuas substituting refined sugar for or and baking instead of deep-frying to reduce oil content while preserving nutritional benefits like iron from . These modern fusions, including oat-based or gluten-free versions, cater to diabetic and fitness-focused observers without compromising ritual sanctity.

Regional and Global Practices

Celebrations in India

Chhath Puja holds its strongest roots in , where it serves as the epicenter of nationwide celebrations, drawing millions to riverbanks for grand observances. In , the state capital, massive events unfold along the Ganga River at numerous ghats, with lakhs of devotees gathering for rituals like arghya offerings during dawn and dusk. The government facilitates these festivities through extensive arrangements, including deployment of security forces across over 100 ghats, deployment of SDRF and NDRF teams, and infrastructure support such as temporary lighting and sanitation facilities to ensure smooth proceedings. In neighboring and , celebrations mirror Bihar's scale at key river but incorporate more urban elements, including community processions through city streets leading to ritual sites. Eastern , particularly Varanasi's Adalat on the , hosts vibrant assemblies with hymns and folk songs echoing in crowded urban settings, while 's features gatherings at the Suvarnarekha River confluence, blending traditional rites with modern amenities like solar-powered lighting at . These regions emphasize collective devotion, with local administrations providing security and crowd management to handle the influx of participants from surrounding areas. The festival's reach has extended to other states like Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, driven by large migrant populations from Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, who adapt rituals to urban constraints by constructing artificial ponds and makeshift ghats. In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, communities set up temporary water bodies near temples and residential areas, enabling group rituals without access to natural rivers, while markets bustle with traditional offerings like thekua sweets. In 2025, the Delhi government created approximately 1,300 artificial ghats and cleaned sections of the Yamuna River, allowing rituals at 17 dedicated riverbank sites alongside artificial ponds to accommodate thousands of Purvanchali devotees. These adaptations highlight the festival's resilience amid migration and urbanization. Despite its popularity, Chhath Puja encounters challenges such as severe overcrowding at prime s, posing risks of stampedes and health hazards in densely populated areas like and . The in the early 2020s exacerbated these issues, prompting restrictions on mass gatherings and encouraging adaptations like home-based pujas and virtual live streams of rituals to maintain devotion while curbing transmission. In 2020 and 2021, authorities in , , and enforced and limited ghat capacities, though many devotees initially flouted guidelines; by 2022, eased curbs allowed fuller participation, underscoring the festival's enduring communal spirit.

Observance Abroad

Chhath Puja is also observed in , particularly in the Madhesh () region among the Madhesi , with celebrations mirroring those in . In 2025, devotees gathered at riverbanks such as the Koshi and local ponds for the four-day rituals, including strict fasts, offerings, and arghya to the sun, emphasizing purity and family blessings in communal settings. Chhath Puja has been observed in since the , where the festival blends with local Hindu traditions among the Indo-Mauritian , which constitutes a significant portion of the island's . Devotees often adapt rituals by using community halls and auditoriums to simulate ghats when access to natural water bodies is limited, hosting collective prayers and offerings during the four-day observance. In , celebrations similarly emerged in the among the Indo-Fijian , integrating elements of other Hindu festivals while maintaining core rituals like arghya offerings, with events drawing families to beaches or community spaces for communal fasting and bhajans. In North America, Chhath Puja has grown substantially since the 2000s, with large-scale community events organized by associations like the Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) in cities such as New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. Participants obtain permits for public waterfronts, including the Hudson River, Potomac River, and Credit River in Canada, to perform sandhya and usha arghya, drawing hundreds of Indian-origin families for rituals amid the urban landscape. These gatherings emphasize cultural continuity, featuring traditional fasting, thekua preparation, and kosi arrangements, often amplified by live music and prasad distribution. Observances in and tend to be more intimate, focusing on home-based or settings to preserve the festival's essence amid smaller populations. In the UK and other European countries, families assemble at local lakes, canals, or parks for offerings, adapting rituals to cooler climates while prioritizing devotion to and Chhathi Maiya through private fasts and small group bhajans. Australian celebrations, particularly in Perth and , blend gatherings with community events that highlight , using artificial ghats in public spaces to foster intergenerational participation and identity. Diaspora communities face challenges in sourcing traditional ingredients like and whole-wheat flour for , often relying on imported goods or home adaptations to replicate authentic naivedya. Harsh weather, such as early morning cold in and during , prompts shifts to indoor or sheltered venues, with devotees bundling up for arghya while maintaining purity. Since the , online platforms including groups and diaspora forums have facilitated organization, recipe sharing, and virtual connections, enabling remote participation and strengthening community bonds across continents.

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