What is Chhath Puja
Chhath is an ancient Hindu festival originating from Nepal and East India, particularly celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, as well as the Nepalese provinces of Koshi, Lumbini, and Madhesh. In major northern urban centers, such as Kathmandu Valley, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, many Nepalis and East Indians participate in the celebrations.
The Bharat-Nepal Maitri Chhath Ghat, located on the banks of the Dhouns River near the Indo-Nepal border around the Madhwapur-Matihani area, is a prominent location in the Mithila region, attracting devotees from both countries for collective rituals. During Chhath Puja, prayers are offered to the Sun God, Surya, expressing gratitude for life’s abundance and seeking blessings for fulfilling personal wishes.
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chhath Puja | Thursday, November 7, 2024 | All day |
| Sunrise | November 7, 2024 | 6:37 AM |
| Sunset | November 7, 2024 | 5:31 PM |
Significance
The festival involves a series of rituals over four days, each with its own significance:
- Nahay Khay: The first day marks the cleansing of the mind and body, where devotees bathe in holy rivers and prepare for fasting.
- Kharna: The second day involves a 24-hour fast, broken in the evening with a simple offering, symbolizing purity and devotion.
- Sandhya Arghya: On the third day, devotees offer prayers to the setting sun, giving thanks for life’s blessings and asking for prosperity and protection.
- Usha Arghya: The final day celebrates the rising sun, symbolizing renewal, hope, and new beginnings. Devotees pray for their families’ health and well-being, symbolizing a bond between humankind and nature.
Chhath Puja’s significance extends beyond religious practice, symbolizing respect for nature, unity, and cultural heritage, and is one of the few Hindu festivals dedicated to the Sun God.
Holiday
Chhath Puja 2024 bank holiday: Banks will remain closed in some states for four consecutive days due to Chhath Puja, followed by a weekend that includes a second Saturday and a Sunday.
