Chhath Puja is a significant cultural and traditional festival celebrated mainly in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. The festival is observed to express gratitude and seek blessings from the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya (the Goddess of energy), focusing on themes of nature, health, and well-being. While it has religious undertones, Chhath Puja is also deeply rooted in the community, family, and agricultural traditions, with an emphasis on environmental harmony.
The celebration of Chhath Puja spans four days, each having its own unique set of rituals. The first day begins with the "Nahay Khay" (bath and food) ritual, where devotees cleanse themselves and prepare special meals. The second day, known as "Kharna," involves fasting and making offerings of sweets, often prepared using rice, jaggery, and fruits. The third day, or "Chhath," is the main day, when devotees gather near rivers, ponds, or other water bodies to offer prayers and observe fasts while standing in the water, symbolizing the connection between the Sun, water, and life. On the fourth day, known as "Paran," the fast is broken, and offerings are made with gratitude for the health and prosperity received.
Chhath Puja is distinguished by its rigorous rituals, such as fasting without water, standing in water for long periods, and offering prasad (sacred offerings) at sunrise and sunset. The festival not only has cultural significance but is also a reflection of the people's deep connection with nature, as they acknowledge the life-giving power of the Sun and express reverence for the natural world.
Beyond its religious aspects, Chhath Puja is a vibrant community event, often involving families, neighbors, and even entire villages coming together to participate in the preparations, prayers, and celebrations. The festival fosters unity and solidarity, as people of all walks of life come together to perform the rituals, reinforcing the values of family, gratitude, and respect for the environment.
In recent years, Chhath Puja has gained popularity beyond its traditional areas of observance, with many people in urban centers also taking part in the festivities, celebrating the bond between nature, health, and community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation, especially the preservation of water bodies and clean surroundings.
