Chhath Puja is a significant and ancient Hindu festival, celebrated primarily in the Indian states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand, as well as in Nepal. It is one of the most famous festivals in India, observed with great devotion to worship the Sun God and his consort, Chhathi Maiya. The word "Chhath" means "sixth" in Nepali, Maithili, and Bhojpuri languages, signifying its celebration on the 6th day of the month of Kartikeya according to the Hindu Luni-Solar Bikram Sambat calendar. This festival, lasting four days, follows shortly after Diwali, adding to the season of light and spiritual devotion.
The Meaning and Etymology of Chhath Puja
The term "Chhath" comes from the Prakrit word, derived from the Sanskrit "Shashthi," meaning "sixth." Celebrated on the sixth day of Kartik month, Chhath Puja is considered one of the longest and most important festivals after Navratri. It is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and his consort, Chhathi Maiya, and involves a four-day ritual of fasting, bathing in sacred waters, and offering prayers to the setting and rising sun.
Historical and Mythological Origins
The origins of Chhath Puja are believed to date back to ancient times, possibly even before the Vedic period. The Rigveda contains hymns that worship the Sun, along with rituals similar to those practiced in Chhath Puja. The festival also has ties to the epic Mahabharata, where Draupadi is said to have performed similar rituals. According to legend, on the advice of sage Dhaumya, Draupadi and the Pandavas observed Chhath rituals to resolve their problems, which later helped them reclaim their lost kingdom.
Another tradition holds that Lord Rama and Sita performed Chhath Puja during the Shukla Paksha of Kartik month, after returning from their 14-year exile. Their observance of this sacred ritual is believed to have contributed to the deep cultural significance of Chhath Puja, which remains a widely revered festival in northern India.
The Yogic and Scientific History
From a yogic and scientific perspective, the festival is linked to ancient practices in which sages, known as rishis, used the rays of the sun to harness energy, allowing them to sustain themselves without food. This process, called the "Chhath Method," is considered an ancient Vedic practice that reflects the importance of solar energy in maintaining physical and spiritual well-being.
The Worship of Chhathi Maiya
Alongside the Sun God, devotees worship Chhathi Maiya, a Vedic goddess also known as Usha, representing the first light of the day. In the Mithilanchal region, she is often referred to as "Rana Mai." Chhathi Maiya is believed to be the younger wife of the Sun God, Surya, and her blessings are sought for health, prosperity, and the well-being of family members. Women who observe the Chhath rituals with fasting and prayer are especially devoted to Chhathi Maiya, seeking her divine grace and protection for their children.
The Four-Day Ritual of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja spans four days, each marked by specific rituals:
- Day 1: Nahay Khay – The devotees take a holy dip in rivers or water bodies and prepare pure, satvik food.
- Day 2: Kharna – On this day, devotees fast from sunrise to sunset, breaking their fast after sunset with a simple meal made of rice and jaggery.
- Day 3: Sandhya Arghya – Devotees offer prayers and arghya (water) to the setting sun, a unique aspect of Chhath Puja, which also celebrates the sun's power as it descends.
- Day 4: Usha Arghya – The final day involves prayers to the rising sun, marking the end of the fast and rituals.
This four-day festival is marked by purity, simplicity, and strict adherence to rituals, with devotees offering fruits, sweets, and thekuas (a traditional sweet) to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
Chhath Puja and Other Indian Festivals
While festivals like Diwali and Dhanteras celebrate wealth, prosperity, and the victory of light over darkness, Chhath Puja emphasizes devotion to nature’s most powerful element, the Sun. The connection between these festivals creates a period of sustained celebration and spiritual upliftment across India, particularly in the northern regions. Just as Diwali, the Festival of Lights, brightens homes and hearts, Chhath Puja illuminates the soul with devotion to the forces of nature and the divine energy of the sun.
Conclusion
Chhath Puja is not just a celebration but a profound expression of faith and gratitude toward the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Rooted in ancient history, mythology, and yogic practices, this festival holds immense importance for millions of Hindus, especially in northern India. Like Diwali, Bhai Dooj, and Dhanteras, Chhath Puja is a famous festival in India, symbolizing devotion, purity, and the eternal bond between humans and nature. The festival stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and spiritual depth of India, celebrating life, health, and prosperity through a blend of rituals, faith, and family unity.
[The images used in this blog post are not owned by Aavyaa, they are just for entertainment purposes]
| DHANTERAS | DEEPAWALI | DIWALI | FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS | CHHATH POOJA | BHAI DOOJ | DEEPAVALI | FAMOUS FESTIVAL IN INDIA | LORD RAMA | NAVRATRI |
~Mimansa Sharma
