Chhath Puja 2024: A Celebration of Tradition and Fervor

One of the oldest Hindu holidays, Chhath Puja is observed with tremendous fervor and devotion throughout the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of West Bengal. This year, the festivities will be held from November 5 to November 8, 2024. The celebration is for honoring Lord Surya, the Sun God, and his sister, Chhathi Maiya.

The Meaning of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is more than just a celebration; it’s a rich exhibition of appreciation of nature, dedication, and customs. Emphasizing both family love and the respect of natural elements, the event is firmly anchored in mythical and cultural themes. Chhath Puja is fundamentally a group display of thanks and respect for Lord Surya and Chhathi Maiya, so representing peace, health, good wealth.

The Four-Day Festival

Nahay Khay (November 5, 2024): The first day marks the beginning of the festival . Devotees, particularly women, cleanse themselves by taking a holy dip in rivers, especially the Ganga . This act symbolizes spiritual purification, setting the stage for the fasting period ahead . On this day, those observing Chhath Puja partake in only one meal, marking the beginning of their devotion and focus

Kharna (November 6, 2024): Devotees refrain from food and even water from daybreak till sunset during a rigorous day-long fast. The fast is broken in the evening with a customary meal (prasad) presented to Lord Surya; usually comprising rice pudding (kheer) and chapatis, This custom emphasizes the great dedication of the followers to the Sun God, therefore enabling the primary observance that follows.

Sandhya Arghya (November 7, 2024): The third day of Chhath Puja is generally marked with a total fast without water. . Devotees gather at riverbanks or other water bodies to offer the first Arghya (a traditional offering) to the setting sun, a distinctive aspect of Chhath Puja . This act of offering Arghya to the setting sun symbolizes gratitude and reverence .

Usha Arghya (November 8, 2024): The final day of the festival is dedicated to offering Arghya to the rising sun . On this day, devotees break their 36-hour-long fast after offerings are made to the Sun God . The morning rituals signify new beginnings and are believed to bring blessings for health, happiness, and the overall well-being of the family .

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Rituals and Traditions

Chhath Puja involves several rituals and traditions that are meticulously followed by devotees . These include maintaining cleanliness, preparing special prasad (offering), and observing a strict fast . The prasad typically includes items like Thekua, coconut, fruits, lemon, dates, and sugarcane . Devotees also avoid non-vegetarian food, onion, and garlic during the festival .

Community and Family

Chhath Puja is not just about individual devotion but also about community and family unity . Families, neighbors, and entire communities gather by rivers, lakes, and other water bodies, creating a shared space of collective prayer and celebration . This celebration goes beyond its local beginnings; involvement comes from other Indian states as well as from beyond.

Conclusion

Chhath Puja 2024 looks to be a colorful festival of community, history, and devotion. Devotees strengthen their ties to family and society as they gather to venerate the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, therefore fostering harmony and peace. This celebration is a lovely reminder of the need of thanksfulness, tenacity, and respect of the environment.