Now that the Diwali celebrations are over, attention is turning to Chhath, which is mostly observed by the expatriate community and in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
The event honors Chhathi Maiya (Mother Shashti), who is thought to be the Sun’s sister, and Surya, the Sun deity. In order to thank the Sun deity for keeping life on Earth going, the four-day sacred event entails rigorous rites and fasting. The event is being held this year from Tuesday, November 5, to Friday, November 8.
How is Chhath celebrated?
The festival begins with Nahay Khay (bathing and feasting), where participants take a ritualistic bath and consume a simple meal. The subsequent day, devotees observe Kharna, which involves fasting throughout the day, breaking it only after sunset as an offering to the deities. The person observing the fast takes the meal of roti (chappati) and kheer (rice pudding) before the family members and friends gather to eat the same meal on a banana leaf together.
On the third day, the main ritual having immense devotion ascribed to it, takes place. Devotees, usually women, gather at the water bodies, be it rivers or ponds, before sunrise. Standing waist-deep in water, they offer arghya (offering of water) to the rising Sun, chanting hymns and prayers. This unique aspect of Chhath Puja symbolizes purity, self-discipline, and the continuity of life. The setting (Usha) Sun witnesses another round of arghya, bidding farewell to the day.
When is Chatth being celebrated?
- Nahay Khay: November 5 from 6:36 AM till 5:33 PM
- Kharna: November 6 from 6:37 AM to 5:32 PM
- Sandhya arghya: November 7 from 6:38 AM to 5:32 PM
- Usha arghya: November 8 from 6:38 AM to 5:31 PM
For the Biharis, who consider it a Mahaparv (grand holiday), the celebration holds particular significance. To celebrate the holiday and immerse themselves in their own culture, millions of migrants from all across the nation come back to the state.
For the Biharis, who consider it a Mahaparv (grand holiday), the celebration holds particular significance. To celebrate the holiday and immerse themselves in their own culture, millions of migrants from all across the nation come back to the state.
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Source: NDTV
