Chhath Puja: The Sacred Festival of Gratitude and Devotion in Bihar
Chhath Puja, a revered festival in Bihar, India, is a celebration of devotion, gratitude, and the harmonious connection between humans and nature. Dedicated to the Sun God Surya and his consort Usha, it involves strict rituals, fasting, and purity. Despite being primarily celebrated in Bihar, it has spread globally.
Historical Significance and Mythology Behind Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja, a festival deeply rooted in Indian mythology, is believed to have been first performed by Draupadi and the Pandavas in the Mahabharata to bring prosperity and resolve their problems. It is also believed that Sita, Lord Rama’s wife, performed the festival to honor the Sun God upon his return from exile. Another mythological reference suggests that the festival was first celebrated by Karna, the son of the Sun God, known for his strength and valiance.
The Four-Day Ritual: A Journey of Devotion
The rituals of Chhath Puja span four days, each day having its own significance and sequence of rites. These days are filled with austerity, prayer, and community participation, reflecting the spirit of simplicity and humility that characterizes this festival.
Day 1: Nahay Khay (Bath and Eat)
On the first day of Chhath Puja, Nahay Khay, devotees take a holy dip in rivers to purify themselves and their surroundings. They then eat a simple meal of rice, chana dal, and pumpkin, cooked in a clean environment. This cleansing ritual symbolizes body and mind purification, preparing for the strict fasting ahead.
Day 2: Kharna (Fasting and Worship)
Kharna, the second day of Chhath Puja, is a significant fast where devotees abstain from food and water from sunrise to sunset. In the evening, they prepare a special meal, including kheer, puris, and fruits, which is consumed after offering it to the Sun God. This ritual symbolizes devotion and self-control, focusing on the well-being of families and society.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (Offering to the Setting Sun)
On the third day of fasting, devotees abstain from food and water. In the evening, they gather near water bodies to perform Sandhya Arghya, an offering to the setting sun. They hold bamboo baskets filled with offerings like fruits, sugarcane, coconut, and sweets, expressing gratitude to the Sun God for life and earth’s nurturing. This emotionally charged event brings thousands of devotees together, honoring the cosmic balance of life.
Day 4: Usha Arghya (Offering to the Rising Sun)
Chhath Puja’s final day, Usha Arghya, involves worshipping the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and hope. Devotees gather at the water’s edge before dawn, breaking their fast and enjoying prasad, marking the end of the festival. The atmosphere is filled with joy as families and communities celebrate the festival’s blessings.
Symbolism and Cultural Importance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is a celebration of life, health, and natural resources, with the Sun God as the source of energy. It emphasizes the interdependence between humans and nature, emphasizing the need to protect and sustain the environment.
Chhath Puja is a minimalistic festival that emphasizes inner devotion over external display, with offerings of humble agricultural produce like fruits, sugarcane, and rice. This simplicity resonates with the agrarian culture of Bihar and reflects the lifestyle and values of its people.
Chhath Puja fosters social harmony and community bonding by involving families, friends, and neighbors in preparations for rituals. Women play a central role in organizing offerings and maintaining sanctity, fostering unity and creating a warm atmosphere.
Chhath Puja Beyond Bihar: A Growing Global Celebration
Chhath Puja, a festival celebrated in Bihar, has expanded beyond its traditional roots to neighboring states like Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh, as well as the diaspora in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The festival’s global presence reflects the pride and attachment of Bihari communities to their cultural traditions. Its values of gratitude, respect for nature, and self-discipline resonate globally, reminding people of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the environment. Devotees dedicate themselves to the Sun God, preserving its resources for future generations.
Conclusion: A Festival of Spiritual Resilience and Reverence
Chhath Puja is a significant spiritual festival in Bihar, promoting devotion and discipline through rigorous rituals. Participants seek divine blessings through personal sacrifice, prayer, and gratitude. The festival serves as an ode to nature, reminding us to nurture and protect it. The festival instills a spirit of unity and respect for nature’s forces, resonates universally, and inspires generations across the world. It transcends religious practices and is a journey of faith, resilience, and devotion that continues to inspire generations.
People from all corner of country definitely returned back to their families to celebrate this auspicious four day celebration of Chhat Puja.
Likewise celebrities of Bihar Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi, Neetu Chandra cannot spare there presence still having hectic work schedule during this festival.
Chhath Puja’s highlight is the evening and morning arghya, where devotees gather by rivers or ponds to offer prayers. Singer Sharda Sinha, known as the “Queen of Bhojpuri music,” joined the celebration, capturing the essence of the festival with her soulful songs. Sinha felt pride in seeing younger generations continue the tradition, as her music bridged generations through devotion and love for Bihar.
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