Tue Nov 05 03:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Chhath Puja 2024: Millions to Observe Four-Day Festival Beginning Today

**Patna, India:** The four-day Chhath Puja, a major religious festival observed by millions across India, begins today, November 5th, 2024. Chhath, primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya (Goddess of children).

Women observe this fast for the long life and well-being of their children. The festival will conclude on November 7th.

**The Significance of Chhath Puja:**

The festival finds its roots in ancient scriptures, which suggest that the Sun occupies its lowest position during the Kartik month. Therefore, special worship is performed to ward off health issues.

The sixth lunar day (Shashti) is believed to be associated with the lifespan of children, making the worship of the Sun and Chhathi Maiya a ritual for seeking blessings for progeny and their longevity.

**The Four Stages of the Festival:**

* **Nhaye-Khaye (November 5th):** This marks the first day, where devotees cleanse their bodies and minds by bathing in sacred rivers, lakes, or at home. The water is often mixed with a little Ganges water. The house, especially the kitchen, is thoroughly cleaned and purified. Devotees then take a solemn vow to follow the rituals of Chhath Puja with utmost devotion. On this day, they consume a simple, sattvic meal comprising rice, chana dal, and pumpkin, devoid of garlic, onion, or spices. The meal is cooked in earthen or brass utensils and traditionally prepared on firewood or cow dung cakes.

* **Kharna (November 6th):** The second day, called Lohanda-Kharna, involves fasting throughout the day and consuming kheer (sweet rice pudding) in the evening. This kheer is made with sugarcane juice and does not contain salt or sugar.

* **Arghya to the Setting Sun (November 7th):** On the third day, devotees fast and offer arghya (worship) to the setting Sun, accompanied by offerings of special dishes like thekua (sweet cake) and seasonal fruits. The arghya is given using milk and water.

* **Arghya to the Rising Sun (November 8th):** The final day of the festival sees devotees offering the last arghya to the rising Sun. The fast is broken with the consumption of raw milk and prasad (blessed food).

**Chhath Puja is a beautiful expression of faith, devotion, and cultural tradition. It serves as a testament to the deep-rooted connection between humankind and the natural world, particularly the life-giving Sun.**

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