Khushi RawatUpdated 13 Nov 2026 11:05 AM IST
Chhath Puja begins on the Chaturthi tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the Kartik month. This is an extremely sacred and important festival. On this day, Arghya is offered to both the rising and setting Sun, and it is celebrated for four days. In this puja, women observe a strict fast of 36 hours.
The significance of Chhath Puja is very deep in Indian culture. On this day, by observing the fast, women pray for happiness and peace in the family, happiness of children, and good health. During this time, the fasting person and their family members are required to follow several religious and dietary rules so that the fast can be completed without any hindrance and receive the blessings of Chhathi Maiya.
During Chhath Puja, all family members of the one who is observing the fast should follow a Satvik diet. It is essential to avoid garlic, onion, and non-vegetarian food. During this period, simple and pure food like sago, pumpkin, rice, fruits, and dishes made from water chestnut flour are eaten. A complete satvik diet maintains purity in the mind and strengthens the feeling of faith. Along with the devotee, it is also important for all the family members to follow the same purity.
The main fasting devotees of Chhath Puja are women who observe a strict fast of 36 hours. During this period, they have to take a pledge not only not to eat food but also not to drink water. This ritual is considered extremely sacred. The fast should be focused only on worshiping the Sun and offering Arghya during the day and night. Completing this fast brings mental and physical purity and the full benefits of the puja. If a woman is not able to follow this difficult rule, then she should think carefully before observing the fast, because if water is drunk during this time, the fast is broken and the benefit of the puja will not be received.
Chhath Puja begins with Nahay-Khay, in which devotees begin preparations for the puja by taking a special bath. Eating pumpkin, gram, and chiuda is especially important on this day. After this, Lohanda and Kadhai are worshiped on the second day. In this, devotees offer Arghya to the Sun and his wife Usha. After offering evening Arghya on the third day, the puja ends with Usha Arghya on the fourth day.
Take care of cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness and purity during Chhath Puja. Devotees who are observing the fast should perform the puja after taking a bath and wearing clean clothes.
Take special care of the time of sunset and sunrise: During Chhath Puja, along with offering Arghya to the setting sun, it is also essential to offer Arghya to the rising sun. This ritual is associated with the Sun, which brings positive energy and health in life.
Worship without any obstruction: Avoid any kind of obstruction during the fast. If there is any interruption in the worship and fasting, it might reduce the benefits of the fast.
The main objective of Chhath Puja is the prosperity of the family, happiness of children, and good health. Women perform this puja to wish for the happiness of their children. Also, this festival spreads positive energy in society along with peace in nature and family.
Chhath Puja is a difficult but extremely fruitful fast. Observing it in the right way is believed to bring happiness and prosperity in one's life. During this time, it is necessary to follow the proper rules and beliefs to receive the full benefits of the puja and the blessings of Chhathi Maiya.
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