Chhath Pooja

Chhath Pooja is a deeply spiritual festival dedicated to Surya Dev (Sun God) and his sister Chhathi Maiya. Predominantly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, it spans four days of rigorous fasting, holy bathing, and offering prayers during sunrise and sunset at rivers or water bodies. Devotees thank the Sun for sustaining life on Earth and pray for the health and prosperity of their family.

On the main days, devotees offer arghya (water offerings) to the rising and setting sun while standing in water, accompanied by folk songs and Vedic chants. The preparation of offerings like thekua (sweet wheat-based delicacy), fruits, and sugarcane is done with utmost purity. The rituals are traditionally conducted by women, although men also participate actively.

Chhath Pooja signifies self-discipline, surrender to divine energy, and ecological reverence. It is one of the few Hindu festivals that directly worship nature, especially the elements of water and the sun. It reinforces devotion, detoxifies the body and mind, and brings the family together in collective spiritual pursuit.