Chhath Puja: A Sacred Festival Celebrating the Sun God
Chhath Puja is an ancient Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, Lord Surya. It is primarily celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Nepal. With its origins deeply rooted in ancient Vedic practices, this four-day festival holds great significance for devotees, who gather to express their gratitude to the source of life and energy – the Sun. We will explore the rich history, rituals, significance, and cultural aspects of Chhath Puja.
1. Historical Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja finds its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures and is believed to be older than the Vedas. The Rigveda mentions the ritual of offering prayers to the Sun. However, it gained prominence during the medieval period of Mithila, during the reign of the King of Darbhanga. The festival was further popularized by Mahaprabhu Karna, a mythological figure associated with Chhath Puja.
2. Rituals and Celebrations of Chhath Puja
Meticulously observed festival that involves numerous rituals, fasts, and prayers. The festival starts on the sixth day (Shashthi) of the Hindu month of Kartik and concludes on the seventh day (Saptami) with the break of dawn. The key rituals of Chhath Puja involve:
Nahai Khai: On the first day, devotees take a holy bath in rivers or water bodies before preparing food without using any garlic and onions. They consume this offering, known as ‘kaddu bhaat,’ along with the family.
Lohanda and Kharna: Devotees observe day-long fasts without consuming even water. In the evening, they perform Lohanda, where they prepare the prasad (offering) consisting of puris, bananas, and jaggery. After sunset, they end their fast by consuming this prasad.
Sandhya Arghya: On the third day, devotees go to the riverbank or any water body to offer their prayers to the setting sun. This ritual includes standing in water and offering fruits and thekua (a traditional sweet) to the Sun God.
Usha Arghya: On the final day, devotees gather at the riverbank again, this time to offer their prayers to the rising sun. The devotees break their fast by consuming thekua and other prasad before heading back home.
3. Cultural Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja not only holds religious importance but also has cultural significance. It brings communities together, strengthening social bonds and fostering a sense of unity. The festival is deeply rooted in the agrarian culture of the region, whereby the worship of the Sun God is seen as a plea for protection and prosperity for the community’s harvest.
During Chhath Puja, several traditional songs, often known as ‘Chhath Geet,’ are sung, praising the Sun God and the beauty of nature. These songs passed down through generations, reflect the rich cultural heritage of the people celebrating the festival.
4. Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja holds immense significance for devotees. The festival is believed to have the power to cleanse the body and soul, fulfill wishes, and bring prosperity. Here are some key reasons why Chhath Puja holds such significance:
4.1 Spiritual Purification: Chhath Puja is considered a means of purifying the mind, body, and soul. Devotees believe that by observing the rigorous rituals and fasting during Chhath, they can remove negative energies and attain spiritual upliftment.
4.2 Gratitude to the Sun God: The Sun is considered the ultimate source of energy and life. Chhath Puja is an expression of gratitude towards the Sun God, with devotees seeking blessings for good health, prosperity, and protection from diseases.
4.3 Environmental Impact: Chhath Puja is an eco-friendly festival that promotes reverence for nature. The rituals involve taking a holy bath in rivers and standing in water to offer prayers to the Sun. This highlights the importance of water conservation and maintaining a clean environment.
4.4 Cultural Unity: Chhath Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm and participation from all sections of society. The festival promotes cultural unity, as people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate and share the joy of Chhath Puja.
Chhath Puja is a vibrant festival that celebrates the Sun God and holds great significance for devotees. With its rich history, meticulously observed rituals, and cultural aspects, the festival showcases the deep-rooted devotion and unity of communities. So, let us embrace the spiritual essence of this festival and join in the celebration to express our gratitude to the life-giving Sun God.
