Chhath Puja is one of the most revered and significant festivals in Bihar, celebrated with utmost devotion and grandeur. This festival, which honors the Sun God (Surya) and his wife Usha, is an ancient tradition, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Bihar and neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Nepal www.magnificentbihar.com. Though it has spread across the country, its celebration in Bihar remains unmatched in terms of devotion and fervor.
What is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a festival dedicated to worshipping the Sun God, seeking his blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity. The festival, which spans four days, is observed by offering prayers and rituals at the riverbanks or other water bodies at sunrise and sunset. The central aim is to express gratitude to the Sun for sustaining life on Earth and to seek his blessings for a healthy life.
The Four Days of Chhath Puja
1. Nahay Khay (Day 1):
The festival begins with the “Nahay Khay,” where devotees cleanse their homes and take a holy dip in a river or water body. After the bath, they prepare traditional offerings like rice, lentils, and vegetables. The main objective is purity—spiritually and physically.
2. Kharna (Day 2):
The second day, known as “Kharna,” is when devotees fast for the whole day and break their fast in the evening after performing the Puja. A special sweet dish called “Kheer” made from rice, jaggery, and milk is prepared and offered to the Sun. Devotees consume the prasad (holy offering) only after sunset, marking the end of the day’s fasting.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Day 3):
The third day is marked by the “Sandhya Arghya” ritual, where devotees gather at the riverbanks, armed with offerings like sugarcane, fruits, and other traditional items. The offering is made to the setting Sun, with devotees praying for the well-being and prosperity of their families. It is a mesmerizing sight to witness thousands of devotees, dressed in yellow or red, performing synchronized prayers and rituals along the river.
4. Usha Arghya (Day 4):
The final day of Chhath Puja is “Usha Arghya,” when devotees rise before dawn to offer prayers to the rising Sun. This ritual is known for its intense spirituality and discipline, as devotees stand in knee-deep water, offering the final prayers with devotion and gratitude. The Sun is welcomed with chants, and offerings are made to ensure a prosperous and healthy life.
The Rituals and Devotion
The rituals of Chhath Puja are rigorous and require significant discipline. Devotees observe strict fasting, refrain from drinking water, and abstain from certain foods throughout the festival. Many also choose to stand in water for hours, making it a physically demanding festival. Despite these challenges, the devotion of the participants is unwavering. The rituals involve chanting hymns and prayers, with families coming together to perform the Puja. The festival is often a time for communities to bond, as people gather in large groups near rivers, ponds, or other water bodies.
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the people of Bihar and surrounding regions. It’s not just about seeking blessings; it is also about purifying oneself, physically and spiritually. The Sun God is seen as the giver of life, and through this festival, devotees express their gratitude. It also fosters a sense of community as families, neighbors, and even strangers join hands to observe the rituals.
This festival is unique because it does not have the usual grandeur associated with most other Hindu festivals. There are no loud celebrations or fireworks. Instead, the focus is on silence, purity, and devotion. The offerings made to the Sun God are simple, but the love and respect shown are profound.
Cultural Impact and Social Unity
Chhath Puja has a unifying effect on the people of Bihar. It transcends social classes and creates a sense of solidarity among people from all walks of life. The festival also brings to the fore the strong connection between nature and humanity. Water bodies like rivers, ponds, and lakes become the focal points of this celebration, symbolizing the importance of nature in our lives.
The community aspect of the festival is also significant. People come together to help each other perform the rituals, share food, and offer prayers. It’s common to see friends, family members, and even strangers joining forces, all with the same goal: to honor the Sun God and seek his blessings.
Conclusion
Chhath Puja is a celebration of faith, resilience, and unity. It is a festival that transcends the boundaries of religion and region, bringing people together in devotion to the Sun God. In Bihar, it’s more than just a festival—it’s a way of life. The spirit of Chhath Puja is deeply embedded in the hearts of the people, and its practice ensures that the essence of this ancient festival remains alive, cherished, and celebrated for generations to come.
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