The four-day Hindu festival of Chhath Puja has begun with great devotion and spiritual energy across several parts of India, especially in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and eastern regions of the country. The festival, dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and his sister Chhathi Maiya, is a celebration of faith, purity, and gratitude toward nature’s life-giving power.
A Festival Rooted in Faith and Simplicity
Unlike most other Hindu festivals, Chhath Puja involves no idol worship. Devotees express their reverence through self-discipline, fasting, and prayers to the rising and setting sun. The rituals symbolize gratitude for the Sun’s energy that sustains life on Earth and seeks blessings for good health, prosperity, and family well-being.
The festival is especially significant for women, many of whom observe a rigorous fast and perform the rituals with deep spiritual focus. The scenes at riverbanks and ponds across states are filled with devotion, traditional songs, and lamps illuminating the evening sky.
The Four Sacred Days of Chhath Puja
Day 1 – Nahay Khay:
The festival begins with devotees taking a holy dip in rivers or ponds. After the bath, they prepare a simple, pure vegetarian meal—often rice, pumpkin, and lentils cooked in ghee—to purify the body and soul.
Day 2 – Kharna:
On this day, devotees observe a strict fast without water until sunset. The fast ends with an offering of jaggery kheer (sweet rice pudding) and chapati, marking the start of a 36-hour waterless fast that continues through the main rituals.
Day 3 – Sandhya Arghya:
In the evening, families gather near rivers, ponds, or water bodies to offer Arghya (offerings of water, milk, and fruits) to the setting sun. The view of devotees standing waist-deep in water, holding bamboo baskets filled with fruits and diyas (lamps), creates one of the most spiritual and visually stunning moments of the year.
Day 4 – Usha Arghya:
On the final morning, devotees offer prayers to the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings, hope, and positive energy. The fast is then broken, and prasad (offerings) is distributed among family and community members.
A Message of Environmental and Spiritual Balance
Beyond its religious significance, Chhath Puja teaches lessons of ecological harmony and mental purity. Every ritual—from bathing in rivers to offering natural fruits—connects humans to the environment and reminds society of the importance of balance and gratitude.
In recent years, efforts have been made to keep water bodies clean and ensure safe celebrations. Governments in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have deployed volunteers and local bodies to maintain cleanliness and safety during the festivities.
Conclusion
As chants of devotion and the glow of diyas fill the air, Chhath Puja 2025 once again reminds us of India’s deep-rooted culture of faith, discipline, and respect for nature. For millions of devotees, it is not just a festival—it is a spiritual journey of gratitude toward the Sun, the eternal source of life.
