Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival primarily celebrated in Nepal and parts of northern India, particularly in the Mithila region, Madhesh, and Tharu communities. It is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and his wife, Usha, symbolizing life, energy, and well-being. The festival usually falls in October or November, shortly after Tihar (Diwali) and lasts for four days.
Key Rituals and Observances:
- Day 1 (Nahai Khai): The first day involves purification. Devotees take a holy dip, usually in rivers or ponds, and prepare a simple meal to maintain purity throughout the rituals.
- Day 2 (Kharna): On the second day, devotees fast for the entire day without consuming water, breaking the fast only in the evening with prasad (offering) made from rice pudding, fruits, and sweets.
- Day 3 (Sandhya Arghya): This day marks the most important part of Chhath Puja. Devotees prepare offerings (usually fruits, thekua, and rice) in bamboo baskets. At sunset, they gather near rivers, ponds, or any water body to offer arghya (water) to the setting sun. This ritual is a prayer for well-being and prosperity.
- Day 4 (Usha Arghya): On the final day, devotees return to the water early in the morning to offer prayers to the rising sun. This marks the end of their 36-hour-long fast, and the festival concludes with family gatherings and sharing of the prasad.
Cultural Significance:
Chhath Puja is unique because it involves worshipping the natural forces, specifically the Sun and water, which are considered vital for life on Earth. It fosters a deep connection with nature and symbolizes gratitude for the energy and sustenance the Sun provides. The festival also emphasizes values like discipline, purity, and self-control.
While Chhath is observed across Nepal, it holds particular cultural significance in the Terai region. It brings communities together, regardless of caste or class, in collective prayer and celebration.