Chhath Puja Celebrations Begin in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern UP

Chhath Puja, a significant festival in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and southern Nepal, has commenced on Saturday, marking the start of a four-day long celebration. The festival, which commemorates the worship of the Sun God (Surya Dev) and 'Shashti' or 'Chhathi Maiya', is observed by intense fasting, prayers, and devotion. Devotees undertake fasts, ranging from 12 to 36 hours, to offer prayers and perform rituals for the well-being of their families.

Key Takeaways:

• The Chhath Puja festival begins on the Chaturthi (fourth day) of the Shukla Paksha, the bright fortnight of the month of Kartik.
• The festival commences on Saturday and concludes on Tuesday, with the main day being Monday.
• Devotees observe 12-hour fasts, while married women undertake a 36-hour fast, abstaining from food and water.
• The festival is a time of intense devotion, with worshipers praying to the Sun God and 'Chhathi Maiya' for the well-being of their families.
• Chhath Puja has a rich mythological significance, with legends stating that Draupadi and Sita Devi observed similar rituals to pray for the success of the Pandavas and Rama.
• Historically, King Priyavrat is said to have performed severe penance to please Surya Dev, initiating the custom of Chhath Puja.
• The festival marks the end of the harvest season, with devotees expressing gratitude to Surya Dev for abundance and prosperity.
• The four-day ritual schedule includes Nahaye Khay, Lohanda and Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Parana day and Usha Arghya.

Statistics:

• The duration of the Chhath Puja festival is four days.
• Devotees observe fasts ranging from 12 to 36 hours.
• Married women undertake a 36-hour fast, abstaining from food and water.
• The festival is a significant celebration in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and southern Nepal.

Sources:

• Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd. (2025)
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