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Chhat Puja, also known as Pratihar Sashthi or Surya Sashthi, is an ancient Hindu Vedic festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya (known to be the sister of Surya). Primarily celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and the Madhesh region of Nepal, the festival is observed on the sixth day of the month of Kartika in the Vikram Samvat. This falls typically in October or November in the Gregorian calendar.
The origins of Chhat Puja are believed to date back to ancient times, with references found in the Rigveda where worship of the Sun God is mentioned. The festival also finds mention in epics like Mahabharata where Draupadi is depicted performing a similar ritual. It's thought to have been initiated by Karna, the son of Surya and a great warrior in Mahabharata.
The puja venerates the Sun God for sustaining life on earth and for bestowing health and prosperity upon worshippers. It also honors Chhathi Maiya to thank her for protecting offspring.
Chhat Puja spans over four days that include:
Nahay Khay: Devotees take a holy bath, preferably in a river or pond, and consume a single meal.
Lohanda and Kharna: On this day after a day-long fast without water, devotees prepare offerings (prasad) which they consume after sunset following a worship session.
Sandhya Arghya (Evening offerings): This involves making offerings to the setting sun usually at riverbanks or water bodies amidst singing folk songs.
Usha Arghya (Morning offerings): The final day involves making offerings to the rising sun followed by breaking the fast.
Devotees observe fasting and stand in water for long periods offering prayers. The prasad includes fruits, sweets and home-made delicacies offered on bamboo trays covered with turmeric-colored cloth.
Homes and surroundings are cleaned; people wear new clothes; traditional songs are sung; and family members come together to celebrate this puja with great pomp and enthusiasm. It's an eco-friendly festival with
