What Is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a four-day Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya Dev) and his sister Chhathi Maiya, celebrated predominantly in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal's Terai region. It usually falls 6 days after Diwali and involves intense fasting, cleanliness, and offering Arghya (water oblations) to the sun.
It is one of the few Hindu festivals where both the rising and setting sun are worshipped.
Why Do Devotees Stand in Water to Pray?
One of the most iconic images of Chhath is devotees standing waist-deep in rivers or ponds, offering Arghya to the sun. This isn’t symbolic alone—it’s ritually and cosmically significant:
1. Symbolic Surrender to Nature
Standing in water signifies humility and reverence toward the elements—earth, water, air, fire, and space. The act of immersion reflects unity with nature and a return to purity.
2. Absorption of Cosmic Energy
Facing the sun while immersed in water is believed to help absorb solar energy, balancing the body’s bioelectric field. It’s similar to how sun salutations in yoga are performed during sunrise.
3. Physical & Mental Cleansing
Water immersion while fasting and chanting is seen as a form of cleansing—not just physically, but emotionally and karmically. It enhances concentration, focus, and spiritual calmness.
4. Ideal Time for Energy Transition
Sunrise and sunset are seen as sandhyakal—the transition points where spiritual energy is at its peak. Standing in water amplifies this divine connection.
Who Is Chhathi Maiya?
Chhathi Maiya is believed to be Usha, the consort of Surya Dev, and also associated with Shashthi Devi, the protector of children and childbirth. She is worshipped for:
The well-being of children
Relief from diseases
Fulfillment of wishes for progeny and protection
Many women take the vrat (fast) to thank her after childbirth or pray for fertility.
Origin of Chhath Puja
According to legends:
Karna, son of Surya and Kunti, regularly offered water to the sun while standing in a river.
Draupadi and the Pandavas are said to have performed Chhath to regain their lost kingdom.
The festival was further popularized in the Mithila and Magadh regions of Bihar.
Rituals of Chhath Puja (Four Days)
| Day | Ritual | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 – Nahay Khay | Bath & meal with purity | Begins detox & fasting |
| Day 2 – Kharna | Fasting ends with gur kheer | Prepares body for 36-hr fast |
| Day 3 – Sandhya Arghya | Sunset water offering | Gratitude for life & energy |
| Day 4 – Usha Arghya | Sunrise prayer in water | Hope, healing & renewal |
Chhath in 2025: Climate, Rivers, and Responsibility
In recent years, urban rivers and ponds are struggling with pollution, making the ritual difficult. Yet, crores of devotees still gather to perform the puja—even in artificial ponds or tanks.
2025 Chhath Puja is also witnessing:
Eco-friendly push with clay diyas and organic prasad
Increased awareness of clean rivers and public hygiene
Virtual celebrations for NRIs and Bihari diaspora
FAQs About Chhath Puja
Q1: Can men perform Chhath Puja?
Yes, both men and women can observe the vrat and perform rituals.
Q2: Why is Surya Dev worshipped during sunset too?
Worshipping the setting sun acknowledges the entire cycle of life—birth to dusk, prosperity to decline.
Q3: Is it necessary to fast for 36 hours without water?
While traditionalists observe nirjala vrat (no food/water), some do so with medical guidance or partial fasting.
Q4: Can Chhath Puja be done in a tank or bathtub?
While flowing water is ideal, many urban devotees use clean tanks or artificial ponds with full devotion.
Final Thoughts
Chhath Puja is a prayer made in silence, facing the sun, standing in the waters of faith. It is a profound blend of science, spirituality, and simplicity, connecting the cosmos with the commoner.
As the rivers flow and the sun rises, Chhathi Maiya listens—not to words, but to hearts.
Published on : 2nd August
Published by : SMITA
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