An Eco-Friendly Hindu Festival: Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is predominantly observed in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and the region of Nepal. The term “Chhath,” which translates to “six” in the Maithili and Bhojpuri languages, is celebrated on the sixth day following Diwali in the month of Kartik, signifying the commencement of the four-day Chhath Puja festival.
Historical Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is believed to have its origins in the era of the Mahabharata. According to various traditions, Suryaputra Karna, a figure from the Bhagalpur district of Bihar, is said to have performed this puja. Additionally, it is recounted that Draupadi engaged in Chhath Puja to reclaim her kingdom.
Furthermore, historical accounts indicate that Sita Maa conducted Chhath Puja in the Munger district of Bihar. It is thought that she performed this ritual for the first time along the banks of the River Ganga in Munger, where a temple commemorates the footprints of Mata Sita.
Rituals Associated with Chhath Puja
During the observance of Chhath Puja, individuals undertake the cleaning of their homes and consume satvic food throughout the month of Kartik. The festival commences with “Nahay Khay,” a day dedicated to bathing and subsequent meals. On this occasion, the individual performing the Chhath rituals is the first to eat, followed by family members. Traditional dishes such as pumpkin vegetable, rice, and chapati, adorned with tulsi leaves, are prepared.
The following day is known as “Kharna.” On this day, the individual observing the fast abstains from food and water. In the evening, they prepare prasad and conduct a puja, offering prayers to Surya Dev (the Sun God). The fast concludes with the consumption of prasad, after which family and friends gather to receive blessings and express gratitude to the divine. The prasad is then shared among loved ones, fostering a sense of community.
In the evening, “Sandhya Arghya” is performed, during which the individual continues to fast. They prepare traditional sweet dishes such as thekua and larua, which are characteristic of Bihar. While preparing thekua, they often sing folk songs dedicated to Chhath Maiya, which include prayers and expressions of devotion.
The women engaged in the preparation of prasad abstain from eating and drinking during this period. They adhere to particular rituals, including bathing both before and after the preparation of the prasad. Concurrently, the male members of the family are responsible for cleaning the water source or pond where they will perform the arghya offering to the Sun. During this ritual, seasonal fruits are presented to the Sun God as a gesture of gratitude for the sustenance provided through food, water, and light.
The act of offering arghya to the Sun in the evening represents the belief that every conclusion paves the way for a new beginning, signifying that what has come to an end will eventually commence anew.
The following morning is dedicated to the “Usha Arghya” ritual. On this occasion, the family rises at Brahma Muhurat, takes a bath, and prepares for the puja. The individual observing the fast stands in the water, offering arghya to the ascending Sun while expressing gratitude. Subsequently, the daughters and daughters-in-law wash the feet of the person conducting the rituals. They then touch the saree or cloth worn by the vratti (the individual performing the ritual), seeking blessings for health and prosperity. Each family member touches the feet of the vratti and receives Mahaprasad. During this period, the vratti resides in a separate room, leading a highly spiritual life and refraining from using a bed.
Ultimately, the “Paran” ceremony signifies the conclusion of the fast. The fasting individual breaks their fast by consuming the prasad, which is then shared with neighbors and friends as a symbol of love and blessings.
