Chhath Puja: A Festival of Devotion, Tradition, and Gratitude

Chhath Puja is more than just a festival; it is an emotion. Regardless of being rich or poor, people make it a priority to return home, especially to their village, where often no one lives permanently. This festival holds deep significance and is celebrated in regions such as Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and even parts of Nepal. It is marked by the harvesting of crops like wheat, radish, ginger, turmeric, and sugarcane, among others. The prasad is made from these fresh ingredients, avoiding store-bought sweets.

Chhath Puja is unique as it involves worshipping both forms of the sun—during sunset and sunrise. Devotees, particularly married women, observe a strict 36-hour fast called Nirjala Vrat, during which they do not eat or drink water until the next sunrise. The festival also includes cleaning the ghats, rivers, and homes, emphasizing the importance of purity.

One of the most powerful aspects of Chhath Puja is when devotees stand in the river, worshipping it in the form of the sacred Ganga, and wait for the sun to rise. Standing in the cold water while offering prayers shows the determination and devotion of the worshippers. This act also symbolizes a deep psychological connection between humans and the universe, where people surrender themselves and receive blessings. It reminds everyone of the value of life and the truth of existence. Humans give thanks to the universe, especially to Lord Sun, recognizing that without the sun, life would not be possible.

Chhath Puja also highlights the importance of all living beings and natural elements like crops, cows, water, soil, and air—all essential for human life. The festival is celebrated without any form of violence or harm to living creatures. Scientifically, it signifies gratitude for life and the elements that sustain it through prayers and fasting. Devotees feel the presence, power, and importance of everything needed for a meaningful life.

On Kharna Puja, a day before the main celebration, people visit each other’s homes to share prasad. I remember, as a child, going from house to house with my uncle and brothers, tasting prasad and sharing moments with everyone. It was a time when all conflicts were forgotten, and the whole village came together in unity.

To truly experience the magic of Chhath Puja, one must visit the villages. The sight of freshly cut crops, the smell of greenery, the aroma of farm fields, and the simplicity of life create a unique atmosphere. The traditional preparations, like cleaning the puja area with cow dung and making chullahs (earthen stoves) for cooking prasad, and the excitement of reaching the ghat on time, capture the true spirit of the festival. Chhath Puja is a beautiful reminder of tradition, community, devotion, and the deep gratitude for the life we are given.

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