- Chhath Puja 2024 Date: 5 November to 8 November
Location: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh (banks of rivers like the Ganges)
Massive gatherings for rituals and offerings to the Sun god.
What is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, Surya, and his sister, Chhathi Maiya. It is primarily celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and the Terai regions of Nepal. Festival involves rigorous rituals and fasting to thank the Sun for sustaining life on Earth and to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being.
Date of Chhath Puja 2024
In 2024, Chhath Puja will be celebrated from November 5th to November 8th. Festival spans four days, each marked by distinct rituals and significance:
- Nahai Khay – 5 November, Tuesday
- Kharna – 6 November, Wednesday
- Evening Prayer – 7 November, Thursday
- Morning Prayer – 8 November, Friday
Importance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja holds profound cultural and spiritual significance:
- Worship of the Sun God: Sun is revered as the source of all energy and life. Devotees pray to Surya for health, prosperity, and longevity.
- Harvest Festival: It is celebrated as a harvest festival, signifying the end of the harvest season, during which devotees thank the Sun for a bountiful crop.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Rigorous fasting and rituals associated with Chhath Puja are believed to purify the mind and body, facilitating spiritual upliftment.
- Community Bonding: Festival fosters a sense of community as families and neighbors gather to perform the rituals and offer collective prayers.
Puja Muhurta
Auspicious timings for the main rituals of Chhath Puja 2024 are as follows:
- Nahay Khay: Sunrise at 6:19 AM on November 5, 2024
- Kharna: Sunset at 5:35 PM on November 6, 2024
- Sandhya Arghya: Sunset at 5:35 PM on November 7, 2024
- Usha Arghya: Sunrise at 6:20 AM on November 8, 2024
Puja Method
Rituals of Chhath Puja are elaborate and conducted with immense devotion:
- Nahay Khay: First day involves taking a holy dip in a river or pond, believed to purify one’s soul. A meal of kaddu-bhaat (pumpkin and rice) is prepared and consumed as the only meal of the day.
- Kharna: On the second day, devotees observe a day-long fast which is typically broken in the evening after offering prasad (a special meal) to the Sun God. Meal usually consists of traditional sweets made from jaggery and rice.
- Sandhya Arghya: Third day holds the most significance, where devotees gather near a water body during sunset to offer Arghya (an offering of water) to the setting sun. Ritual symbolizes the connection with nature and the energies of the universe.
- Usha Arghya: On the final day, devotees again perform the Arghya, this time to the rising sun. Following this ritual, families break their fast, often sharing a festive meal together.
FAQs
When is Chhath Puja celebrated in 2024?
In 2024, Chhath Puja will be celebrated from November 5th to November 8th.
What is the role of Chhathi Maiya in Chhath Puja?
Chhathi Maiya, also known as Shashthi Devi, is worshipped alongside the Sun God during Chhath Puja. She is considered the goddess of fertility and children. Devotees seek her blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their families.
How do people prepare for Chhath Puja?
Preparation for Chhath Puja involves thorough cleaning of homes and surroundings. Devotees also prepare the necessary items for the rituals, such as fruits, sweets, and other offerings.
Chhath Puja is more than just a religious observance; it is a celebration of life, gratitude, and community. Rituals, while steeped in tradition, reflect the values of togetherness and respect for nature that are integral to this vibrant festival.
