Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival observed in the month of Kartika, which usually falls in October or November. It is especially important in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. The festival is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and Chhathi Maiya, with prayers offered for health, prosperity, and the well-being of family members.

History of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja, also known as Surya Shashthi, is an ancient Hindu festival with roots in Vedic traditions of sun worship. It is observed on Kartika Shukla Shashthi, the sixth day of the bright half of the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. The festival is especially associated with devotion, purity, discipline, and gratitude to the Sun, which is honored as a source of life and energy.

The observance lasts four days and includes ritual bathing, fasting, preparing offerings, and prayers at sunrise and sunset. Devotees often stand in rivers, ponds, or other bodies of water while offering arghya to the setting and rising sun. The festival is widely celebrated in northern and eastern India, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, as well as in the Terai region of Nepal.

Interesting Facts About Chhath Puja

• Chhath Puja is one of the few Hindu festivals dedicated directly to the Sun.
• The four main days are known as Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya.
• The fasting tradition is very strict, and many devotees abstain from both food and water for an extended period.
• Offerings often include thekua, fruits, sugarcane, rice dishes, and other simple foods prepared with great care.
• Cleanliness is an essential part of the observance, both at home and at the riverbanks or ghats.
• The festival is known for its use of natural materials, simple offerings, and outdoor rituals.

How Chhath Puja Is Observed

Chhath Puja is observed through fasting, prayer, ritual bathing, and offerings to the Sun. Devotees prepare prasad with care, visit rivers or ponds, and offer arghya to the setting sun in the evening and the rising sun the next morning. Families often gather together, clean their homes, and take part in processions to the ghats. Visitors may respectfully observe the rituals, but they should follow local customs and avoid disturbing worshippers.

When Is Chhath Puja in 2026?

Chhath Puja is observed on different dates each year, based on the Hindu lunar calendar. In 2026, the main day of Chhath Puja falls on November 15.

Observations