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Chhath Puja: Why Devotees Offer Prayers to the Setting Sun

[City, Date] – The Chhath Puja, a four-day Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, is being celebrated with fervor from October 25th to October 28th. While offering prayers to the rising sun is a common practice in Hinduism, Chhath Puja uniquely includes offering “Aarghya” (water offering) to the setting sun.

The festival, primarily observed for the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of children, involves rigorous rituals, including a 36-hour fast. The second day, known as “Kharna,” is a special day for vrattis (observers of the fast).

According to astrological beliefs, the Sun represents success, leadership, and fame. A strong position of the Sun in one’s horoscope is said to bring wealth, recognition, and success in life. Offering prayers to the Sun strengthens its position, thus making it important.

Traditionally, offering prayers to the setting sun is generally not practiced in Hinduism. However, Chhath Puja is the one exception. Devotees believe that during the setting hours, the Sun is accompanied by his second wife, Pratyusha. Offering Aarghya at this time is considered highly auspicious and is believed to fulfill wishes and remove obstacles in life.

“Offering prayers to the setting Sun during Chhath Puja is believed to alleviate economic, social, mental, and physical problems, ushering in happiness and prosperity,” said a devotee partaking in the celebrations.

The festival culminates with prayers to the rising Sun on the final day. This offering is believed to bring fame, self-confidence, good health, and prosperity. It is only after offering prayers to the rising Sun that the 36-hour fast is broken.

Chhath Puja holds immense cultural and religious significance, highlighting devotion, purity, and the importance of nature in Hindu traditions.

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