The sunrise across North-India is noted around 06:30 am and sunset around 05:39 pm on this day. The auspicious Shashthi Tithi lasts until 07:59 am.
- Sunrise: ~ 06:30 am
- Sunset: ~ 05:39 pm
- Shashthi Tithi ends: ~ 07:59 am
Across cities and ghats, devotees gather by water-bodies before dawn to perform the final offering of Arghya to the Sun.
Rituals & Significance of Usha Arghya and Parana
On Day 4, participants observe the morning ritual of Usha Arghya offering water, thekua (a special sweet), sugar-cane and fruits to the rising Sun. With this, they seek blessings for health, longevity and overall well-being. 6
After the offering, the fast (which may have lasted around 36 hours for some) is broken with the traditional ceremony of Parana. Devotees partake of prasad and water to mark the successful completion of the Vrata (vow).
The festival emphasises gratitude to the sun’s life-giving force and celebrates renewal, discipline and community.
Where and How It’s Celebrated
Though Chhath Puja is traditionally associated with states like Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh, its observance has grown in Delhi, West Bengal and other parts of India. Devotees assemble on river-banks, pond-sides and ghats, wearing simple traditional attire and carrying bamboo baskets laden with offerings. 9
The atmosphere is charged with dawn-chants, hymns, and collective devotion as families unite by the water’s edge to offer Arghya to the first rays of the sun. With Parana completed, the community breaks the fast together, signifying unity and renewal.
Important Observations & Tips
If you plan to attend or participate:
- Reach the ghat early well before sunrise to secure a good spot.
- Dress modestly in traditional attire (e.g., saffron/orange for women, dhoti-kurta for men) and carry a basket (soop) with thekua, seasonal fruits and sugar-cane.
- Observe silence and respect the devotees’ space and rituals phones should be on silent mode.
- Ensure safety near water-bodies: surfaces may be wet and early-morning light is low.
- After fast-breaking (Parana), consume only light prasad and water before proceeding to regular meals.