An ancient Hindu festival, dedicated to Lord Surya, A devotee offers prayers to the rising sun during the end of “Chhath” festival at River in Kathmandu, Nepal, on Monday November 20, 2023
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Observing Chhath Puja: A Festivity of Gratitude and Devotion
Devotees are taking holy bath and waiting for rising sun on the occasion of Chhath festival in my home town Memari, West Bengal. Chhath is a popular Hindu festival celebrated since the Vedic times. It is dedicated to the Sun God(Surya) who sustains all life on Earth. It is celebrated on the sixth day of the lunar fortnight of Kartik month six days after Diwali. It is the state festival of Bihar and is observed for a period of four days with rigorous fasting. It includes a holy bath and making offerings to the rising and the setting Sun and makes various types of food. Chhath is celebrated in the northern and eastern parts of India along with Nepal.
A Close Look at the Rituals
Devotees cleanse themselves at “Nahay Khay” by taking a sacred dip in a lake or river. This is followed by a day of fasting and getting ready for the main ceremonies. Devotees fast until sunset on the second day, known as “Kharna,” and then serve the Sun, moon, and other gods “prasad,” a sweet meal made with rice and jaggery. The most significant rites are carried out along the riverbanks on the third day, “Sankranti,” when worshippers stand knee-deep in water to give sacrifices to the Sun in gratitude for his bounties. The final “Usha Arghya” at dawn, when people once more offer prayers to the rising Sun, marks the festival’s conclusion.
Chhath Puja Rituals: An Unusual Custom
Chhath Puja’s emphasis on nature and environmental devotion sets it apart from other Hindu holidays. To venerate the Sun God, devotees pray at ponds, lakes, or riverbanks, emphasizing the close bond between people and the natural world. In the rites, offerings such as sugarcane, fruits, and ‘thekua’ (a traditional sweet) are piled in exquisitely painted baskets, placed on the heads of believers, and transported to the riverbanks for prayers. It is one of the most spiritually intensive celebrations because of the complex fusion of fasting, devotion, and strict discipline.
Community Celebrations and a Festive Spirit
Chhath Puja promotes a strong sense of community in addition to emphasizing personal devotion. Family and friends came together to celebrate the holiday, making offerings and carrying out rituals as a group. People from all areas of life gather to venerate the Sun God, regardless of caste or creed, making it a time for societal harmony as well. The event has a distinctive communal element because of its colorful processions, religious music, and communal feasts.
Cultural Importance and Contemporary Festivities
Although Chhath Puja’s origins are steeped in tradition, it has changed with time. Many non-resident Indians in nations including the US, UK, and Canada celebrate the holiday, which has grown in popularity in urban areas in recent years. Social media has been crucial in raising awareness of this historic celebration and putting it in the public eye worldwide.
This celebration acts as a reminder of the value of discipline, thankfulness, and reverence for the natural world. It acknowledges the Sun God’s role in maintaining life on Earth and is a potent statement of devotion to him. In addition to celebrating spirituality, Chhath Puja honors family, community, and the enduring bond between people and the natural world.
The customs of Chhath Puja provide a special chance for reflection, spiritual rejuvenation, and a closer bond with the environment and our cultural history in our fast-paced world. It is a holiday that teaches us to enjoy the blessings that are frequently overlooked and to respect and value the natural forces that support life.
