Chhath Puja 2024: Rituals, Dates, and Significance of the Sun Worship Festival

Introduction to Chhath Puja 2024

Chhath Puja is a renowned Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion and reverence. According to the Hindu calendar, it falls on Kartika Shukla Shashthi in the month of Kartika. This four-day celebration honors the Sun God (Surya), symbolizing energy and life. In 2024, Chhath Puja will commence on Tuesday, November 05, 2024, and continue till Friday, November 08, 2024. Devotees worship the Sun God to express gratitude for sustaining life on Earth and to seek blessings of health, prosperity, and happiness for their loved ones.

Chhath Puja Rituals and Traditions

Chhath Puja spans over four days, each day marked by unique rituals that are meticulously followed by devotees.

Day-Wise Observance of Chhath Puja

First Day: Nahay Khay (November 05, 2024)

On the first day, devotees take a holy bath early in the morning and cleanse their homes to prepare for the prayers. They observe a single meal in the day to signify purity and discipline.

Second Day: Kharna (November 06, 2024)

Known as Panchami, devotees fast the entire day and break it only after sunset by offering Earth worship, with foods like Rasiao-kheer, puris, and fruits. They then continue a strict fast for the next 36 hours without consuming water.

Third Day: Chhath Puja and Sanjhiya Arghya (November 07, 2024)

On the third day, worshipers gather at the riverbanks to offer Sanjhiya Arghya to the Sun at dusk. Adhering to tradition, they wear a single turmeric-colored saree after the Arghya ritual, signifying purity.

Fourth Day: Usha Arghya (November 08, 2024)

On the final day, devotees offer Bihaniya Arghya at sunrise at the riverbank, marking the end of their fast with the sacred Chhath Prasad.

Importance and Benefits of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja holds immense significance, especially during the periods of sunrise and sunset, which are believed to be the most auspicious times for absorbing solar energy safely. Through Sanjhiya Arghya and Bihaniya Arghya offerings, devotees seek blessings from the Sun God.

Significance of Solar Worship in Chhath Puja

Observing Chhath Puja is believed to purify the body and mind, enhance energy levels, and reduce negative emotions. These rituals make it a spiritually uplifting festival, marking its importance in Hinduism and in promoting well-being.