The origins of Chhath Puja are believed to trace back to ancient times, with roots in the sacred Vedic era. The Rigveda contains hymns in praise of Lord Surya (the Sun God), highlighting rituals similar to those observed during Chhath. The tradition is also mentioned in the epic Mahabharata, where Draupadi is depicted performing these sacred rites, seeking blessings for her family’s well-being. This age-old festival, steeped in devotion and reverence for the sun, connects us to the timeless customs of our ancestors, honoring the life-giving power of nature.
Why is the festival named 'Chhath'?
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The meaning of the word Chhath is six in Nepali or Hindi Language and as this festival is celebrated on the sixth day of the month of Karthik, the festival is named the same.
Chhath Puja is traditionally celebrated twice a year, marking both the summer and winter seasons. The most prominent celebration, Karthik Chhath, takes place during October or November, on the sixth day of Kartika Shukla Shashti, according to the Hindu calendar. This auspicious festival occurs six days after Diwali, one of the biggest Hindu festivals, usually falling in the late autumn months.
The summer observance, known as Chaiti Chhath, follows a few days after Holi. Though smaller in scale, it carries the same devotion and reverence, celebrating the Sun God’s blessings with equal fervor.
Benefits of Chhath Puja
The beauty and profound benefits of Chhath Puja lie in its disciplined and sacred rituals. As devotees, or Vrrati, sing soulful folk songs, their minds and spirits are soothed, creating a serene atmosphere. The solar energy absorbed during this time is believed to enter the bloodstream, enhancing the function of white blood cells and promoting overall health. This energy also stimulates the glands, leading to balanced hormone secretion and replenishing the body’s energy reserves.
Chhath Puja is not just a physical detox but a mental rejuvenation. The rituals foster a deep sense of calm, dispelling negative energies and regulating the Pranic flow, which helps control emotions like jealousy and anger. With patience and dedication, devotees often experience the awakening of psychic abilities such as healing, intuition, and telepathy.
Beyond the spiritual and personal benefits, this festival carries a powerful message of preserving natural resources, promoting harmony between humanity and nature.
Four Days Of Chhath Puja
DAY 1 NAHAI KHAI
Nahai Khai (Bathe-and-Eat): This marks the first day of the festival when devotees, also known as Vrattis, begin their rituals by taking a sacred bath in a nearby river, pond, or any water source, with special emphasis on the holy River Ganges. They collect Ganga water to bring home, which is then used to prepare the Prasad — a sacred meal often made from pumpkin, bottle gourd, and a mixture of mung and chana daal. On this day, devotees thoroughly clean their homes and surroundings to create a purified space. Vrattis consume their meal only once on this day, and the food is prepared with utmost care to avoid any contamination. Once the meal is ready, the Vratti eats first, followed by the rest of the family.
DAY 2 Lohanda / Kharna
On Panchami, or the fifth day of the Hindu calendar, devotees, known as Vrattis, observe a full-day fast, abstaining from food and even water until sunset. This day is dedicated to festival preparations, including shopping for essentials like sugarcane, fruits, and other offerings. In the evening, Vrattis prepare a special dish called Rasiao-kheer, made from jaggery, rice, and milk, alongside chapattis. They also gather fruits such as bananas, radishes, green ginger, betel leaves, and spices like black cardamom and cloves to present to Chhathi Maiya during worship. After the puja, the Vratti breaks their fast by consuming the Prasad, which is later shared with family and friends. Midnight brings the Kharna ritual, during which people prepare thekua, a special Prasad dedicated to Chhathi Maiya.
DAY 3 Sanjhiya Arghya
Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings) – Sanjhiya Ghat: The third day of Chhath Puja is divided into two main segments according to the rituals.
Sandhya Arghya: Known as Sanjhiya Ghat or the evening offering, this day begins with devotees resting and preparing offerings at home, typically early in the morning before sunrise. Throughout the day, a bamboo basket called a daura is assembled, filled with various offerings such as thekua and seasonal fruits. In the evening, the vratti and family members gather at the riverbank, pond, or a specially adorned reservoir for the puja. Sitting on the ghat, they worship the setting sun while singing folk songs that reflect India’s rich cultural heritage. As the sun sets, the vratti perform the Sandhya Arghya ritual, offering their prayers to the Sun God before returning home.
Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings) – Sanjhiya Ghat: The third day of Chhath Puja consists of two main parts that are significant to the rituals observed during this sacred occasion.
DAY 4 Usha Arghya / Bhoriya Arghya
The morning offering made to the Sun God is known as Bihaniya Arghya. Early in the morning, the vrattis and their family members gather at the riverbank, where they sit together until sunrise, singing songs and worshipping Chhathi Maiya. Once the sun rises, the morning arghya is offered by entering the water with the arghyas placed in a sauri or supali. After completing the morning offerings, the vrattis share the Prasad among themselves and seek blessings from their elders on the ghat before returning home.
Upon returning, the vrattis break their 36-hour fast with ginger and water. Following this, a delicious meal is prepared for them, known as Paran or Parna. Due to the lengthy fast, they typically consume light food on this day.
Thus, the four-day celebration of Chhath Puja comes to a close.
Chhath Puja 2024 Dates
This year, Chhath Puja will be observed over a span of four days, from the 5th of November to the 8th of November 2024, with Surya Shashthi, the main day of the festival, falling on the 7th of November 2024.
Day | Date | Ritual |
| Friday | 5 November 2024 | Nahay-Khay |
| Saturday | 6 November 2024 | Lohanda / Kharna |
| Sunday | 7 November 2024 | Sandhya Argh |
| Monday | 8 November 2024 | Usha Arghya / Bhoriya Arghya |
GALLARY OF CHHATH PUJA
Welcome to Chhath Puja Experience – Your Ultimate Guide to the Sacred Festival!
We offer an unforgettable journey to witness the grandeur of Chhath Puja, with a full range of services to make your experience truly special.
1. Stay – Comfort That Suits You
Choose from a selection of 2- and 3-star hotels, tailored to your needs. Whether you want a cozy stay or something more luxurious, we have the perfect accommodations ready for you. Experience comfort, convenience, and the warmth of Bihar’s hospitality during this spiritual journey.
2. Authentic Bihari Food
Taste Trationdi Delight in the pure, authentic flavors of Bihari cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like litti-chokha, thekua, and khichdi, all prepared with love and care. Our meals bring you the true essence of Bihar, perfect for a fulfilling culinary experience throughout the festival.
3. Full Event Coverage
Immerse Yourself in Chhath Puja. We ensure that you don't miss a single moment of Chhath Puja. From the sacred Nahai Khai to the grand Sandhya Arghya at the ghats, our expert guides will walk you through every ritual and tradition. Witness the devotion, the cultural performances, and the vibrant folk songs that define this magnificent festival.
4. Personal Photographer
Capture Every Memory. We provide a professional photographer to capture every special moment of your Chhath Puja experience. Whether it's the serene sunrise at the riverbank or your personal involvement in the rituals, we’ll help you keep those memories alive with stunning photos.
5. Customizable Plans
Tailored Just for You Looking for something specific? We offer fully customizable plans to suit your preferences. Whether you want a private ghatside experience, guided temple tours, or something extra, we can create a package that fits your unique needs.
6. Transport Facility
Seamless Travel, Stress-Free. We provide hassle-free pickup and drop services, ensuring you travel in comfort. Enjoy a scenic tour of Patna’s iconic landmarks as part of our comprehensive transportation services. We’ll take care of your journey from start to finish, letting you focus on the beauty of the festival.
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Experience the Joy of Chhath Puja in Bihar: A Celebration Like No Other!
Welcome to Bihar! If you’re an NRI looking to reconnect with your roots, there’s no better time to come home than during Chhath Puja—the grandest festival that honors the Sun God and promotes gratitude for nature’s blessings. This four-day festival is filled with rituals, family gatherings, and vibrant celebrations. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit and enjoy the essence of Chhath Puja in Bihar!
Day 1: Nahai khaai
Start your Chhath experience with Nahaikhaai, the first day of the festival, dedicated to purification and preparation.
- Activities: Gather with your family and partake in rituals that include taking a holy bath and cleaning the house. Enjoy traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, like Thekua (sweet fried cookies) and seasonal fruits.
- Local Markets: Visit local markets to witness the hustle and bustle as families shop for puja items like fruits, flowers, and other offerings.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage in local customs and traditions while sharing stories with loved ones about the significance of each ritual.
Day 2: Lohanda / Kharna
On the second day, known as Kharna, you will experience the spiritual preparations for the main day of worship.
- Activities: This day involves fasting and preparing a special meal after sunset, which is shared among family and friends. Participate in the cooking of traditional dishes, including Kheer (rice pudding) made from freshly harvested rice.
- Family Bonding: Enjoy quality time with your family as you all gather to break the fast together. Share the joy of food and laughter, creating beautiful memories.
- Cultural Events: Join in local folk songs and dances, enhancing the festive spirit.
Day 3: Sanjhiya Arghya
The third day, Sanjhiya Arghya, is when the actual puja begins. This is the day when devotees offer their prayers to the setting sun.
- Sunset Worship: Head to the nearest riverbank or designated Bhorwa Ghat for the evening rituals. Witness the breathtaking sight of devotees gathering for the Sanjhiya Arghya, as they offer their prayers with faith and devotion.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional folk songs and the sights of beautifully decorated ghats. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful decorations, lights, and community spirit.
- Participate: Engage with locals and understand the rituals, making your experience enriching.
Day 4: Usha Arghya / Bhoriya Arghya
The final day of Chhath, Usha Arghya, is marked by the worship of the rising sun, completing the four-day festivities.
- Dawn Rituals: Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise as you prepare for the Usha Arghya. Gather with devotees at the ghat to offer your prayers, expressing gratitude for health, prosperity, and family.
- Community Gathering: Participate in communal activities, share festive meals, and connect with fellow devotees. The atmosphere is filled with joy and spiritual energy as everyone comes together to celebrate.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage in discussions about the significance of Chhath Puja and its customs with both locals and fellow NRIs, deepening your understanding of your heritage.
Chhath Puja is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of life, family, and culture. As an NRI visiting Bihar during this time, you will not only enjoy the vibrant rituals and traditions but also reconnect with your roots and the community.
Plan your trip now, and experience the warmth and vibrancy of Chhath Puja in Bihar!
Customizable Plans to Explore Patna
While in Patna for Chhath Puja, make the most of your visit with our customizable plans! Explore the rich history and culture of Bihar with guided tours that include visits to historical landmarks like Golghar, Bihar Museum, and the sacred Ganges. Enjoy local cuisine at renowned eateries, and experience the warmth of Bihari hospitality.
Whether you’re interested in exploring Patna’s heritage, indulging in culinary delights, or engaging with local traditions, our customizable plans cater to your preferences, ensuring a memorable experience.
Come, celebrate Chhath Puja in Bihar and rediscover the beauty of tradition, community, and spirituality! Whether you’re reconnecting with family or experiencing it for the first time, the warmth of this festival will surely leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss this opportunity to create unforgettable memories in the heart of Bihar!
Return Packages: Gift Hampers and Memories of Chhath Puja
As your Chhath Puja experience comes to a close, don’t leave empty-handed! Take home a return package filled with delightful gift hampers that include traditional sweets, prasad, and personalized mementos that capture the essence of Chhath Puja. Share these with your friends and family back home, and let them experience the joy of this festival through your stories and gifts.
