Chhatt Puja 2024-2026 Date, Time and about Puja Muhurat

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Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival primarily celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and the Terai region of Nepal. It is dedicated to worshiping the Sun God, Surya, and his consort, Chhathi Maiya (a form of Mother Goddess, Usha). The festival is observed to thank the Sun God for sustaining life on earth and to seek his blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness.

Chhath Puja Date, Time 2024 to 2026

How to Celebrate Chhatt Puja

Chhath Puja is celebrated twice a year, but the more widely observed and significant celebration occurs during the month of Kartik (October-November) in the Hindu lunar calendar. This occurs on the sixth day after Diwali, which usually falls between late October and mid-November, depending on the lunar cycle. This version of Chhath Puja is often referred to as Kartik Chhath.

Key Dates and Phases of Chhath Puja:

Chhath Puja is observed over four days:

1. Nahay Khay (Day 1):
   • The first day involves taking a holy bath, usually in a river or other water body, and then preparing a meal that the entire family eats. This day marks the beginning of the fast.
2. Kharna (Day 2):
   • On the second day, devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset without water. After sunset, they break their fast with a simple meal called “Kharna,” which typically includes kheer (a sweet rice pudding), chapati, and fruits.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Day 3):
   • On the third day, known as Sandhya Arghya, devotees observe a 36-hour fast without water. In the evening, they gather at riverbanks, ponds, or any clean water source to offer arghya (water offerings) to the setting sun. This is one of the most significant rituals of Chhath Puja.
4. Usha Arghya (Day 4):
   • The final day of Chhath Puja is marked by the Usha Arghya, where devotees offer prayers and arghya to the rising sun at dawn. After completing the ritual, the devotees break their fast, bringing the festival to a close.

The Lesser-Known Chhath Puja:

There is also a lesser-known celebration of Chhath Puja, known as Chaiti Chhath, which occurs in the month of Chaitra (March-April) during the spring season. However, this version of the festival is not as widely celebrated as the Kartik Chhath.

Rituals and Tradition of Chhatt Puja

The rituals and traditions of Chhath Puja are elaborate and steeped in ancient customs. The festival is observed over four days, with each day having specific rituals that emphasize purity, devotion, and gratitude. Here’s a detailed overview of the rituals and traditions associated with Chhath Puja:

Day 1: Nahay Khay

• Bathing in Holy Water: Devotees take a holy dip in a river or other clean water body to purify themselves. This ritual is believed to cleanse both the body and soul.
• Preparation of Food: After the bath, devotees prepare a special meal that usually includes simple vegetarian foods like rice, lentils, and vegetables. This meal is eaten by the entire family, marking the beginning of the fast.

Day 2: Kharna

• Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from all food and water.
• Kharna Ritual: After sunset, the fast is broken with a special meal called “Kharna,” which includes kheer (a sweet rice pudding), chapati, and fruits. This meal is prepared using only clean and fresh ingredients, and it is consumed by the family members. The ritual is performed after offering prayers and is considered an important part of the festival.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya

• 36-Hour Fast: On this day, devotees observe a 36-hour fast without food or water, which begins from the evening of Day 2 and continues until the morning of Day 4.
• Preparation of Offerings: Devotees prepare traditional offerings that include Thekua (a sweet made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee), fruits, and sugarcane. These offerings are arranged on a bamboo basket or a special platform.
• Evening Ritual (Sandhya Arghya): Devotees gather at riverbanks, ponds, or any clean water source to offer arghya (water offerings) to the setting sun. The offerings are presented in a bamboo basket filled with fruits, sweets, and other items. Devotees stand in the water and perform the ritual while singing traditional hymns and prayers.

Day 4: Usha Arghya

• Morning Ritual (Usha Arghya): On the final day, devotees perform the Usha Arghya by offering prayers and arghya to the rising sun at dawn. This is the concluding ritual of Chhath Puja.
• Breaking the Fast: After performing the Usha Arghya, devotees break their fast and partake in a meal consisting of traditional prasad (offerings) that were prepared for the festival. This meal is shared among family members and friends.

Additional Rituals and Traditions:

• Hymns and Chants: Throughout the festival, devotees sing traditional hymns and chants dedicated to Surya and Chhathi Maiya. These hymns express gratitude and seek blessings for health and prosperity.
• Purification: The rituals emphasize the purification of both the body and the environment. Devotees clean their homes and the areas where rituals are performed to ensure they are free from impurities.
• Community Involvement: Chhath Puja is often celebrated communally, with families and neighbors coming together to participate in the rituals. The collective observance fosters a sense of unity and shared devotion.

Symbols and Offerings:

• Thekua: A traditional sweet made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, symbolizing devotion and purity.
• Sugarcane: Often used as an offering, symbolizing sweetness and prosperity.
• Bamboo Baskets: Used to carry offerings to the riverbank, symbolizing devotion and the continuity of tradition.

The rituals and traditions of Chhath Puja reflect a deep sense of devotion and reverence for the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. The festival is a time of reflection, purification

Why Chhatt Puja is celebrated

Chhath Puja is celebrated to honor the Sun God, Surya, and his consort Chhathi Maiya (also known as Usha), who is believed to be the goddess of dawn. The festival is an ancient Hindu Vedic ritual dedicated to expressing gratitude to Surya for sustaining life on earth and to seek his blessings for prosperity, health, and well-being.

Significance of Chhath Puja:

1. Worship of Surya (Sun God):
   • Surya is considered the source of all energy and life. By worshiping him, devotees seek to gain energy, vitality, and health. The sun is also revered as a powerful deity who can cure diseases and ensure the well-being of the devotee and their family.
2. Chhathi Maiya’s Blessings:
   • Chhathi Maiya, considered to be the protector of children and the goddess who grants fertility, is also worshipped during Chhath Puja. Devotees, especially women, pray to her for the well-being of their children and for blessings to conceive.
3. Purification and Gratitude:
   • Chhath Puja is not just a festival of rituals but also a form of purification. The devotees observe strict fasts, take holy dips in rivers, and offer prayers as a means to purify the body and soul. The festival is seen as a way to express deep gratitude for the blessings of life, including good health, wealth, and prosperity.
4. Ecological and Agricultural Significance:
   • The festival is celebrated after the harvest season, which makes it a time to thank Surya for the abundance of crops. In an agrarian society, the sun is crucial for a good harvest, and Chhath Puja is a way of giving thanks for the successful completion of agricultural activities.
5. Mythological Significance:
   • Several legends are associated with Chhath Puja:
     • Karna’s Devotion: As mentioned earlier, Karna, a central character in the Mahabharata, was an ardent devotee of Surya. His daily ritual of offering prayers to the sun is considered one of the inspirations for Chhath Puja.
     • Draupadi and the Pandavas: In the Mahabharata, Draupadi and the Pandavas performed Chhath Puja during their exile to overcome hardships, invoking the blessings of Surya for strength and victory.
     • King Priyavrat and Queen Malini: This legend, where the royal couple performs Chhath Puja to overcome their sorrow of childlessness, highlights the festival’s role in seeking divine intervention in difficult situations.

Rituals and Practices:

• Fasting: Devotees, especially women, observe a strict fast, often for 36 hours without food or water.
• Holy Bath: Taking a dip in a holy river or any clean water body is a crucial part of the ritual.
• Arghya: Devotees offer arghya (water offerings) to the setting and rising sun, which symbolizes surrendering to divine energy.
• Prasad (Offerings): Offerings include fruits, sweets, and other homemade delicacies that are distributed among the family and community.

Community and Family Bonding:

Chhath Puja is also a time for family and community bonding. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and unity, with entire communities coming together to participate in the rituals. This collective worship strengthens social and familial ties and fosters a sense of shared spirituality.

In essence, Chhath Puja is celebrated to honor the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, express gratitude for life’s blessings, and seek their divine protection and prosperity for the future.

Chhatt Puja Stories

The origins of Chhath Puja are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, and several stories are associated with the festival. Here are some of the most well-known stories:

1. Story of King Priyavrat and Queen Malini:

King Priyavrat was a virtuous and just ruler, known for his dedication to his people and his kingdom. Despite his prosperity and power, there was one thing that troubled him deeply—he and his wife, Queen Malini, were childless. This caused them great sorrow, as they longed for a child who would one day inherit the throne and continue their legacy.

The couple tried many ways to conceive, but nothing seemed to work. The King, desperate for a solution, sought the counsel of Sage Kashyap, a revered sage known for his wisdom and spiritual prowess. Sage Kashyap advised the king and queen to perform a special yajna (sacrificial ritual) dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God, who is often regarded as the giver of life.

The couple performed the yajna with utmost devotion and sincerity. As a result of their dedication, Queen Malini soon became pregnant. The entire kingdom rejoiced, and preparations were made to welcome the royal child.

However, their joy was short-lived. When the queen gave birth, the child was stillborn. The king and queen were heartbroken, and the entire kingdom plunged into mourning. The royal couple was devastated, and King Priyavrat felt that all their efforts and devotion had been in vain.

In their moment of despair, a divine light filled their palace, and a celestial goddess appeared before them. She introduced herself as Devi Shashthi, the sixth form of the Mother Goddess. Devi Shashthi is a protective deity who blesses children and ensures their well-being.

The goddess revealed to the king and queen that their devotion had not gone unnoticed, and she had come to answer their prayers. She instructed them to worship her with complete faith and devotion. The king and queen followed her instructions, and soon, a miracle occurred—their stillborn child was miraculously revived.

Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, King Priyavrat and Queen Malini expressed their deep thanks to Devi Shashthi. They vowed to observe the rituals of Chhath Puja every year to honor her and seek her blessings.

From that day onward, the worship of Devi Shashthi and the Sun God became an integral part of Chhath Puja. The festival is particularly significant for women who pray for the health and prosperity of their children, just as Queen Malini did. The story symbolizes the power of devotion and the blessings of the divine, which can overcome even the most challenging situations.

2. The Story of Draupadi and the Pandavas

Draupadi, the wife of the five Pandavas, and her husbands—Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva—are central figures in the epic Mahabharata. After losing their kingdom in a deceitful game of dice with the Kauravas, the Pandavas were forced into exile. During this period, they faced numerous hardships, including a lack of food, shelter, and the constant threat from enemies.

Despite these difficulties, Draupadi remained strong and supportive of her husbands. However, the challenges of exile were taking a toll on the Pandavas, and they needed divine intervention to overcome their plight.

In their time of need, Draupadi turned to her deep devotion to the gods. She began observing the rituals of Chhath Puja, a festival dedicated to worshiping the Sun God, Surya, and his consort, Chhathi Maiya (also known as Usha). Draupadi fasted and offered prayers to the Sun God, seeking his blessings for the well-being of her husbands and the restoration of their kingdom.

Moved by her devotion, the Sun God blessed Draupadi and the Pandavas. As a result, they were bestowed with the divine protection and strength needed to endure their hardships during the exile. Moreover, the Sun God provided them with an inexhaustible supply of food through the Akshaya Patra, a magical vessel that would produce an unlimited amount of food every day until Draupadi had eaten her meal. This ensured that the Pandavas and their followers never went hungry during their years of exile.

Empowered by the blessings of Surya, the Pandavas were able to survive the trials of exile and eventually, with the support of their allies, reclaim their kingdom in the epic battle of Kurukshetra.

The story of Draupadi and the Pandavas highlights the significance of Chhath Puja as a festival of devotion, endurance, and the power of the Sun God. It is believed that by observing Chhath Puja with sincerity and faith, devotees can overcome difficulties and receive the blessings of Surya for prosperity, health, and happiness.

3. The Story of Karna

Karna was born under extraordinary circumstances. He was the son of Kunti, the queen of the Kuru dynasty, and Surya, the Sun God. Before her marriage, Kunti was given a divine mantra by the sage Durvasa, which allowed her to invoke any deity and have a child with them. Out of curiosity and reverence, Kunti invoked the Sun God, Surya, who blessed her with a son as radiant and powerful as the sun itself.

Karna was born with divine armor (Kavach) and earrings (Kundal), making him invincible. However, since Kunti was unmarried at the time of Karna’s birth, she placed the infant in a basket and set him afloat on the river to avoid societal scandal. The child was found and raised by a charioteer, Adhiratha, and his wife, Radha, who named him Karna and brought him up as their son.

As Karna grew up, he developed a strong sense of devotion to his divine father, Surya. He was also known for his exceptional skills in archery, generosity, and strict adherence to his principles. Despite being a great warrior, Karna faced constant discrimination and rejection because of his unknown lineage, which prevented him from being recognized as a Kshatriya (warrior class).

Karna’s devotion to Surya was profound. Every day, he would stand in the river up to his waist, offering prayers and arghya (water offerings) to the Sun God during the sunrise and sunset. This practice is believed to have inspired the rituals of Chhath Puja, where devotees offer prayers to the rising and setting sun.

Throughout his life, Karna remained a steadfast worshipper of Surya, who blessed him with immense strength and valor. His loyalty to the Sun God was so deep that when Indra, the king of gods and the father of Arjuna (Karna’s rival), approached him in disguise to ask for his divine armor and earrings, Karna gave them away without hesitation. Despite knowing that this would make him vulnerable in battle, Karna’s generosity and adherence to his principles were unwavering.

The story of Karna is a powerful example of devotion, courage, and selflessness. His daily worship of Surya is mirrored in the rituals of Chhath Puja, where devotees seek the blessings of the Sun God for strength, protection, and prosperity.

Karna’s life, marked by his devotion to Surya, his struggle against destiny, and his ultimate sacrifice, resonates deeply with the themes of Chhath Puja. The festival honors the Sun God, much as Karna did throughout his life, symbolizing the eternal connection between the divine and human perseverance.

4. Vedic Origins:

The Vedic origins of Chhath Puja are believed to be deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures, particularly the Rigveda, one of the oldest known texts in the world. This connection highlights the significance of the Sun God (Surya) in early Vedic religion and the continuity of these practices into modern times. Here’s an exploration of the Vedic origins of Chhath Puja:

Worship of the Sun God (Surya) in the Rigveda:

The Rigveda contains several hymns dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, who is revered as a source of life, energy, and vitality. Surya is considered one of the most important deities in the Vedic pantheon, representing the cosmic power that sustains the universe. The hymns (Suktas) in the Rigveda often praise Surya for his role in bringing light, driving away darkness, and ensuring the well-being of all living beings.

One such hymn, known as the Gayatri Mantra (Rigveda 3.62.10), is a revered Vedic chant dedicated to the Sun God. It is considered one of the most powerful mantras in Hinduism and is still widely used in daily prayers. The mantra reflects the deep respect and devotion that Vedic people had for Surya, viewing him as the source of divine wisdom and enlightenment.

Usha – The Goddess of Dawn:

In addition to Surya, the Rigveda also venerates Usha, the goddess of dawn, who is associated with the early morning light that heralds the arrival of the sun. Usha is depicted as a beautiful, radiant goddess who dispels the darkness and awakens the world to life. The worship of Usha in the Rigveda reflects the Vedic understanding of the cyclical nature of time and the importance of the sun in regulating life’s rhythms.

The rituals of Chhath Puja, which involve offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, can be seen as an extension of this ancient Vedic worship. The emphasis on these transitional moments—dawn and dusk—echoes the Vedic reverence for Usha and Surya.

The Concept of Arghya:

The practice of offering Arghya (a ritual offering of water) to the Sun God is another tradition with roots in Vedic rituals. In the Vedic tradition, water is considered a sacred element, often used in rituals to purify and sanctify offerings to the gods. Offering arghya to the sun is a way to express gratitude and reverence, acknowledging the sun’s role in sustaining life on earth.

In Chhath Puja, devotees stand in water bodies such as rivers or ponds and offer arghya to the sun at dawn and dusk, continuing this ancient Vedic practice.

The Symbolism of the Number Six:

Chhath Puja is celebrated on the sixth day after the new moon in the month of Kartik, and the word “Chhath” itself means six in Hindi. The number six has symbolic significance in Vedic traditions. For example, in the Rigveda, time is often divided into six parts, and there are six seasons in the Vedic calendar. This symbolic use of the number six reflects the Vedic understanding of cosmic order and the cycles of nature.

Ecological and Agricultural Significance:

The Vedic people were closely connected to nature and the agricultural cycles, which were heavily dependent on the sun. The rituals and hymns dedicated to Surya in the Rigveda often reflect this connection, emphasizing the sun’s role in ensuring good harvests and the prosperity of the land. Chhath Puja, which takes place after the harvest season, can be seen as a continuation of these ancient Vedic traditions, where people give thanks to the sun for its life-giving energy.

Conclusion:

Chhath Puja’s Vedic origins illustrate the continuity of ancient practices and beliefs centered around the worship of natural forces, particularly the Sun God, Surya. The rituals of Chhath Puja, such as offering arghya to the sun, fasting, and praying during dawn and dusk, are deeply connected to the Vedic worldview that emphasizes the sun’s vital role in sustaining life and maintaining cosmic order. The festival, therefore, serves as a bridge between the ancient Vedic traditions and contemporary Hindu practices, celebrating the eternal relationship between humans and the natural world.

8 Major places to visit during Chhatt Puja

Chhath Puja is celebrated with great fervor in several cities across India, especially in regions where the festival is deeply rooted in local traditions. If you’re looking to experience Chhath Puja and its vibrant celebrations, here are some cities and regions where the festival is prominently observed:

1. Patna, Bihar

• Significance: Patna is renowned for its grand Chhath Puja celebrations. The city sees massive gatherings along the banks of the Ganges River, where devotees perform the rituals of offering arghya to the sun.
• Highlights: The ghats of the Ganges, such as Gandhi Ghat and Patna Ghat, are bustling with activity during the festival. The atmosphere is filled with devotional songs, chants, and vibrant processions.

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

• Significance: Known for its spiritual significance and the Ganges River, Varanasi is a major center for Chhath Puja celebrations.
• Highlights: Devotees gather at various ghats along the Ganges, including Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat, to perform the rituals. The city’s ancient temples and ghats provide a picturesque backdrop for the festival.

3. Delhi

• Significance: In Delhi, Chhath Puja is celebrated with enthusiasm by the large Bihari and Uttar Pradesh communities living in the city.
• Highlights: Major water bodies and parks, such as the Yamuna River banks, provide venues for the rituals. Places like the ITO and Kalindi Kunj areas are known for their vibrant celebrations.

4. Jharkhand (Ranchi, Jamshedpur)

• Significance: In Jharkhand, Chhath Puja is a major festival, and cities like Ranchi and Jamshedpur see extensive celebrations.
• Highlights: Rivers and ponds in and around these cities become centers for the rituals. The festival is marked by community gatherings and processions.

5. Mumbai, Maharashtra

• Significance: Mumbai, with its diverse population, also witnesses Chhath Puja celebrations, particularly among the Bihari and UP communities.
• Highlights: The celebrations are centered around the city’s beaches and water bodies, including Juhu Beach and Versova Beach.

6. Kolkata, West Bengal

• Significance: Kolkata’s celebrations of Chhath Puja are a reflection of its diverse cultural fabric, with many devotees from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh living in the city.
• Highlights: Major water bodies like the Hooghly River and various ponds in the city become bustling with Chhath Puja activities.

7. Nepal (Kathmandu)

• Significance: In Kathmandu, Chhath Puja is observed by the Nepali community, particularly those from the Terai region.
• Highlights: The Bagmati River and other local rivers and ponds become central locations for the rituals.

8. Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh

• Significance: Gorakhpur, being a part of the Terai region, witnesses vibrant Chhath Puja celebrations.
• Highlights: Rivers and ponds around the city are the focus of the rituals, with large community gatherings and processions.

Tips for Visiting During Chhath Puja:

• Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance as hotels and lodgings can get crowded during the festival.
• Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Participate in the rituals with reverence and follow the practices observed by the locals.
• Safety: Ensure you follow safety guidelines, especially around water bodies, to avoid accidents during the celebrations.

These cities offer a unique glimpse into the grand and colorful celebrations of Chhath Puja, each with its distinctive flavor and traditions.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Chhath Puja: