Chhath Puja, one of the most revered festivals of Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal, is a Hindu festival dedicated to worshipping the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya, considered the Sun’s sister. It emphasizes purity, simplicity, and community bonding, bringing people together in devotion regardless of social status. Over the past decade, the festival has gained recognition beyond these regions, with diaspora communities celebrating it globally, symbolizing a deep-rooted cultural connection.
Origins and Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja dates back thousands of years and is mentioned in ancient texts, including the Rig Veda, where sun worship is described in detail. The festival’s historical significance is evident in the epic narratives of the Ramayana and Mahabharata:
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The Ramayana Connection: It’s believed that Lord Ram and Goddess Sita observed Chhath Puja upon their return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. They observed a fast and conducted a yagna (fire ritual) in honor of the Sun God, establishing a tradition of offering thanks for blessings received.
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The Mahabharata Connection: In another legend, Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, performed Chhath Puja to seek blessings during their exile. This act is thought to have brought her blessings and strength during challenging times. Additionally, Karna, the son of Surya and Kunti, observed sun worship ceremonies and is known for his devotion to the Sun God.
The Deity Chhathi Maiya
Chhathi Maiya, or Mother Chhathi, holds a significant place in the festival. According to folklore, she is not only the sister of the Sun God but also the daughter of Rishi Kashyap and Aditi, and the wife of Kartikeya, son of Lord Shiva. Known to be an exacting yet generous deity, Chhathi Maiya is believed to bestow blessings of prosperity, health, and happiness on her devotees, especially those who observe the rituals with sincerity and devotion.
Rituals and Traditions of Chhath Puja
The festival spans four days, each with specific rituals that are followed with great dedication and precision:
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Day One – Naha Kha (Bath and Eat): The festival begins with a day of purification. Devotees take a holy bath, often in a river or pond, to cleanse themselves. They eat a single meal, usually a simple pumpkin curry with rice, to begin the period of fasting and prayer.
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Day Two – Kharna: On this day, those observing the fast prepare a meal that includes roti and kheer (rice pudding) made from jaggery and rice. After the meal, a 36-hour fast without water begins, reflecting a high level of dedication and endurance. Family and friends gather to support the devotees, and preparations for the main rituals are intensified.
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Day Three – Sanjhka Arag (Evening Offering): The most prominent ritual, the Sanjhka Arag, is performed at sunset along riverbanks or other water bodies. Devotees, especially women, stand knee-deep in water, holding soops (bamboo baskets) filled with offerings like seasonal fruits, sugarcane, ginger, turmeric, and thekua (a traditional sweet made from wheat flour and jaggery). They offer these to the setting Sun, signifying gratitude for blessings received. The riverbanks are beautifully decorated with diyas (earthen lamps) and rangoli, creating a vibrant, spiritual ambiance.
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Day Four – Bhor ka Arag (Morning Offering): The final ritual, the Bhor ka Arag, takes place at dawn. Devotees once again gather by the water to offer their prayers and fruits to the rising Sun, symbolizing hope, rejuvenation, and the cyclical nature of life. The festival concludes after this offering, and devotees break their fast, sharing the prasad with family, friends, and the community.
Symbolism and Cultural Impact of Chhath
Chhath Puja goes beyond religious practice; it is a cultural phenomenon representing equality, unity, and devotion. The offerings are simple, local, and seasonal, making the festival accessible to everyone. No matter one’s economic status, the rituals emphasize purity, humility, and the belief that everyone is equal in the eyes of God.
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Connection to Nature: At its core, Chhath is a celebration of nature and the environment. By worshipping the Sun, devotees acknowledge the vital role it plays in sustaining life, with each ritual underscoring the importance of respecting natural resources and living harmoniously with the environment.
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Social Significance: Chhath strengthens community bonds. Each member of the community participates in the festival, whether by preparing prasad, cleaning riverbanks, setting up the ritual spaces, or joining the processions to the river. It is common for families to unite during this time, as many who have migrated for work return home to celebrate Chhath with their loved ones.
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Purity and Equality: Chhath’s observance is marked by strict rules on cleanliness, fasting, and sincerity, which is believed to bring prosperity and remove obstacles. It is unique in that no priests are required; every devotee performs the rituals themselves, fostering a personal connection with divinity. The offerings, made of local produce and prepared with care, reflect the ethos of simplicity and purity.
Why Chhath Holds a Special Place in Bihari Culture
For Purvanchalis (people from eastern UP, Bihar, and surrounding areas), Chhath is more than a religious observance; it is a powerful symbol of cultural pride and heritage. The rituals, rooted in ancient beliefs and nature worship, allow people to reconnect with their roots, regardless of where they are. For those in diaspora, it is an opportunity to revisit and honor their traditions, creating a lasting sense of belonging.
In essence, Chhath Puja is about devotion, purity, and the values of simplicity and gratitude. It brings communities together, reminds people of the power of nature, and strengthens cultural ties, making it one of the most cherished festivals in Bihar and beyond.