Chhath Puja in 2023 begins on 17th November and concludes on 20th November. This four-day festival is celebrated with devotion and grandeur, primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and among diaspora communities worldwide.
History of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja dates back to ancient times and finds mentions in Hindu scriptures and epics:
1. Vedic Era:
Hymns in the Rigveda highlight sun worship and rituals similar to Chhath Puja. Ancient sages used these methods to harness solar energy for physical and spiritual sustenance.
2. Mahabharata Connection:
Karna, the son of Lord Surya, performed rituals to honor the Sun God.
Draupadi and the Pandavas, on Sage Dhaumya’s advice, observed Chhath Puja to overcome hardships and regain their kingdom.
3. Ramayana Connection:
Lord Rama and Mata Sita performed Chhath Puja after returning to Ayodhya from exile. Their prayers to the Sun God marked the beginning of this tradition in its current form.
Significance of Chhath Puja
1. Worship of the Sun God:
Devotees pray to Lord Surya for health, prosperity, and longevity. Surya is considered the source of life and a remover of obstacles.
2. Scientific Benefits:
Sunlight is vital for vitamin D synthesis and boosting immunity.
Rituals like fasting and immersion align with detoxification processes, benefiting both body and mind.
3. Environmental Awareness:
The festival promotes eco-friendly practices by emphasizing natural water bodies and biodegradable materials.
4. Spiritual Purification:
Devotees cleanse their minds and souls through prayers, fasting, and offerings, fostering a sense of humility and gratitude.
Rituals of Chhath Puja
- Nahay Khay (Day 1):
Devotees bathe in holy rivers and prepare a simple, pure meal to start the rituals. - Kharna (Day 2):
A day-long fast is observed, broken in the evening with offerings like kheer and fruits. - Sandhya Arghya (Day 3):
Devotees gather at riverbanks during sunset to offer prayers and arghya (water and offerings) to the setting Sun. - Usha Arghya (Day 4):
On the final day, devotees offer prayers to the rising Sun, concluding the festival with a sense of renewal and blessings.
Interesting Facts About Chhath Puja
- Vedic Roots:
It is the only Vedic festival in India, that emphasizes gratitude to natural elements. Health and Wellness:
Rituals aid in detoxification, improve immunity, and promote mental calmness. - Global Celebrations:
While rooted in India, Chhath Puja is celebrated by diaspora communities in Mauritius, Fiji, the USA, the UK, and many other countries. - Scientific Rationale:
Every ritual, from fasting to sun worship, has a basis in science, enhancing both physical and spiritual health. - Eco-Consciousness:
The festival fosters environmental sustainability by avoiding artificial materials and embracing nature.
