Chhath Puja is a revered Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and his consort, Chhathi Maiya. Celebrated predominantly in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal, this four-day festival involves rigorous rituals, including fasting, holy baths, and offering prayers to the setting and rising sun. In 2025, Chhath Puja will commence on Saturday, October 25, and conclude on Tuesday, October 28.
Detailed Schedule and Rituals
Day 1: Nahay Khay (Bathing and Eating)
- Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
- Sunrise: 6:41 AM
- Sunset: 6:06 PM
- Rituals: Devotees begin the festival with a holy dip, preferably in the Ganges, signifying spiritual purification. After cleansing, they prepare a satvik meal, marking the commencement of the fasting period.
Day 2: Lohanda and Kharna
- Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
- Sunrise: 6:41 AM
- Sunset: 6:05 PM
- Rituals: On this day, devotees observe a day-long fast without water, breaking it after sunset with a special prasad prepared from jaggery and rice. This ritual, known as Kharna, signifies the purification of the mind and body.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings)
- Date: Monday, October 27, 2025
- Sunrise: 6:42 AM
- Sunset: 6:05 PM
- Rituals: Devotees prepare an elaborate offering known as ‘Arghya’ and gather at riverbanks or water bodies to offer prayers to the setting sun. This ritual is a gesture of gratitude towards the Sun God for sustaining life on earth.
Day 4: Usha Arghya (Morning Offerings) and Paran (Conclusion)
- Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025
- Sunrise: 6:42 AM
- Sunset: 6:04 PM
- Rituals: The final day involves offering prayers to the rising sun, known as Usha Arghya. After this ritual, devotees break their fast, concluding the four-day festival.
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja holds immense cultural and spiritual importance. It is believed that worshipping the Sun God during this period ensures the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of family members. The festival also emphasizes the significance of ecological balance, as devotees offer prayers to natural elements.
Preparation and Observance
- Purity and Cleanliness: Devotees maintain utmost purity during the festival. Homes are thoroughly cleaned, and participants often wear unstitched, traditional attire.
- Offerings: The prasad typically includes fruits, thekua (a traditional sweet), and rice-based dishes, all prepared without the use of common salt, onion, or garlic, adhering to strict purity norms.
- Community Participation: Chhath Puja fosters a sense of community, with families and neighbors coming together to prepare offerings and participate in rituals, strengthening social bonds.
Conclusion
Chhath Puja is a profound expression of devotion and gratitude towards the Sun God and nature. The meticulous observance of rituals over four days reflects the dedication of the devotees. As you prepare to celebrate Chhath Puja in 2025, may the Sun God’s blessings bring health, prosperity, and happiness to you and your loved ones.
Note: The dates and timings mentioned are based on the Hindu calendar and may vary slightly depending on geographical location and local traditions. It is advisable to consult local Panchang or community leaders for precise schedules.
