Khushi RawatUpdated 12 Nov 2026 02:52 PM IST
In Sanatan Dharm, several festivals are celebrated throughout the year, which are dedicated to different deities. At the same time, Chhath Puja holds a unique place, especially in India’s eastern and northern regions. The thing that makes this festival more special while most people worship the rising sun, Chhath is the only festival when people offer prayers to both the setting and rising sun.
The Sun is worshipped on this day, who is regarded as the father of the universe, and Goddess Chhathi Maiya, who is the protector of children. Devotees observe a fast to seek blessings for offspring, family well-being, and peace at home.
Chhath Puja is a four-day-long festival, which begins with Nahay Khay and ends with the Usha Arghya.
On the first day, devotees take a bath and eat a simple meal of pumpkin and rice. From this day, they avoid consuming non-vegetarian food and adopt a satvik diet.
The second day is known as Kharna. On this day, devotees observe a fast throughout the day and break it in the evening after offering jaggery kheer as prasad. Complete silence is maintained while consuming this offering.
On the third day of Chhath Puja, devotees offer the first Arghya to the setting sun. Standing deep in the rivers or ponds, they wait for sunset and then offer prayers to Suryadev. The day is observed with a nirjala vrat.
On the final day, devotees gather before sunrise to offer the second Arghya to the rising sun. Once the rituals are complete, they break their fast (Parana), which marks the end of Chhath Puja.
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