Chhath Pooja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. It is celebrated mainly in the Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, as well as in Nepal and Mauritius. The festival is celebrated on the sixth day after Diwali, in the month of Kartik (October-November), according to the Hindu calendar. The festival involves worshipping the Sun God for four days, with offerings of food and prayers. Chhath Pooja is believed to bring health, wealth, and prosperity to those who observe it. It has been celebrated since ancient times and continues to be celebrated today by millions of people around the world.

History Of Chhath Pooja

The word ‘chhath’ derives from a Sanskrit word that means “to give”, conveying thanksgiving towards nature’s elements –especially the magnificent sun/solar energy that helps people photosynthesize materials through agricultural activity.

The origin of Chhath Puja can be traced back to the ancient Vedic period when the ritual was performed by the Suryavanshi Kshatriyas, who were known for their valor and bravery. It is believed that by observing Chhath Puja, one can attain blessings from the Sun God and bring prosperity, good health, and happiness to their life.

Thus according to historical facts about this crucial event found mentioned even in Rig Veda scripture dating back thousands upon years ago – it would seem like chhath was already practiced amongst early civilizations living within Northern India by then before eventually getting adopted universally today among all sorts across many regions now as well

This originates from the Rig Veda where popular Goddess Usha was worshipped alongside the sun god with various verses written specially addressing them both together so they could be prayed before sunrise each morning in order gain blessings and health benefits over the next few days leading into Deepavali around late October/November month every year. Over time these practices spread throughout India until eventually, they became regular practice all around South & Central Asian countries today!

How Is It Celebrated?

The festival is a four-day-long celebration that involves a series of rituals and ceremonies. On the first day, known as Nahay Khay, devotees take a dip in the holy river or any other water body and prepare special food items, which are offered to the Sun God. The food is prepared without using onions and garlic and is strictly vegetarian.

The second day, called Kharna, is observed by fasting for the entire day, followed by breaking the fast in the evening after performing the puja. The third day, known as Sandhya Arghya, is dedicated to offering prayers to the setting sun. Devotees gather at the banks of rivers or other water bodies and offer fruits, flowers, and milk to the Sun God.

On the fourth and final day, known as Usha Arghya, devotees offer prayers to the rising sun.  They stand in waist-deep water and offer Arghya (water mixed with turmeric, flowers, and fruits) to the Sun God. The puja concludes with the breaking of the fast, and the devotees offer prasad to their family and friends.

The conclusion of Chhath Pooja signifies the end of a period of abstinence from food and water for devotees who have been fasting for four days as part of their devotion. Chhath Puja is a unique festival that reflects the cultural diversity of India and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by the people. The festival is not only a way to express gratitude to the Sun God but also an occasion to strengthen the bonds of love and unity within families and communities.

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