When is Chhath Puja? Dates, Rituals & Significance

Chhath Puja, a festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his sister Chhathi Maiya, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. But often, the question arises: छठ पूजा कब है? Knowing the exact dates is crucial for devotees to prepare and participate in this four-day-long celebration. Let's dive into the specifics of when Chhath Puja typically falls and what makes this festival so special.

Understanding the Chhath Puja Calendar

Chhath Puja is observed six days after Diwali, on the sixth day of the Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month of the Hindu calendar. This usually corresponds to October or November in the Gregorian calendar. The exact dates vary each year, depending on the lunar cycle. To accurately answer the question, "छठ पूजा कब है?", it’s always best to consult a reliable Hindu calendar or Panchang closer to the time.

For example, if we look at a hypothetical year, let’s say Chhath Puja begins on November 12th. This would mean the main offering to the Sun God would be on November 14th (Sashti). Keep an eye on religious calendars and websites for the precise dates each year.

The Four Days of Chhath Puja: A Detailed Look

Chhath Puja isn't just a single-day affair; it’s a meticulously observed four-day festival, each day holding its own significance and set of rituals.

Day 1: Nahay Khay

The first day, known as Nahay Khay, marks the beginning of the purification process. Devotees take a dip in a holy river, pond, or even a well, symbolizing the cleansing of the body and mind. After the bath, they prepare a simple, vegetarian meal, usually consisting of kaddu bhat (bottle gourd and rice) and chana dal. This meal is consumed only once during the entire day.

I remember my grandmother meticulously preparing the kaddu bhat, ensuring every ingredient was pure and untouched. The aroma itself felt like a spiritual cleansing, setting the tone for the days to come.

Day 2: Kharna

Kharna is the second day, observed with a day-long fast. Devotees abstain from food and water until sunset. After sunset, they prepare and consume a special offering called 'Rasiav-Roti' – a sweet dish made of rice flour, jaggery, and milk. This is the last meal they have before embarking on a 36-hour waterless fast. This Prasadam is first offered to Chhathi Maiya and then consumed by the family.

The Kharna evening is filled with a serene atmosphere. The family gathers around, chanting prayers, and the aroma of Rasiav-Roti fills the air, creating a sense of unity and devotion.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya

The third day is perhaps the most visually stunning and spiritually charged. Known as Sandhya Arghya, devotees gather at the riverbank (or any water body) in the evening to offer Arghya (offerings) to the setting sun. The offerings typically include fruits, sweets, and thekua (a traditional Bihari cookie). These are arranged in bamboo baskets (tokris) and carried to the riverbank by family members.

I’ve witnessed the Sandhya Arghya firsthand, and it's truly a breathtaking sight. Thousands of devotees standing in the water, offering prayers to the setting sun, create an unforgettable spectacle of faith and devotion. The vibrant colors of the sarees, the flickering diyas, and the rhythmic chants create an atmosphere that's both powerful and peaceful.

Day 4: Usha Arghya

The final day, Usha Arghya, involves offering Arghya to the rising sun. Devotees return to the riverbank before