Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is an ancient Vedic festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya (the sixth form of Devi Prakriti). It is one of the most rigorous and environmentally pure Hindu festivals.
Why It's Significant
It is a profound expression of gratitude to the Sun, the source of all life. The worship of the setting and rising sun teaches reverence for nature's cycles and the importance of thanking the divine for sustaining life.
The Story
References to sun worship exist in the Rig Veda. Chhath is believed to have been practiced by Draupadi during the Pandavas' exile. Karna, the son of Surya, was a devoted sun worshipper.
How It's Observed
A 36-hour fast without water. Devotees stand in water bodies at sunset and sunrise, offering arghya (oblation) to the sun. Elaborate preparations of prasad using pure, natural ingredients. No artificial colors, no modern materials — purely eco-friendly.
Traditional Foods
Thekua (wheat and jaggery sweet), kheer, rice laddu — all made without onion, garlic, or salt
Regional Traditions
Primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern UP, and Nepal. Increasingly popular across India. The Bihari diaspora celebrates it worldwide.
Associated Mantras
Om Suryaya Namaha; Om Adityaya Namaha; Gayatri Mantra