Chhat Puja 2024 in Guwahat at Basistha Mandir Chhat Ghat

"Chhath Puja" is a popular Hindu festival primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal, though it has spread to other parts of India and among the Indian diaspora globally. It is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and his consort Usha, the goddess of dawn. The festival is known for its rigorous rituals and the devotion of those who observe it.

### Key Highlights of Chhath Puja:
1. Timing:
Chhath Puja is observed over four days, typically in the month of Kartika (October-November), right after Diwali. It starts on the 6th day of the waning moon and continues until the 9th day. The key day of worship is the Chhath day itself, which is celebrated with great fervor.

2. Rituals:
- Day 1 – Nahay Khay: This marks the beginning of the festival. Devotees bathe in rivers or ponds, and prepare special offerings to the Sun God.
- Day 2 – Kharna: Devotees observe a fast throughout the day and break it after sunset, offering prasad (food offerings) to the Sun and the moon. The prasad usually includes thekua (a sweet made from wheat flour) and kheer.
- Day 3 – Sandhya Arghya: On the third day, devotees gather at riverbanks or ponds to offer "Arghya" (prayers with offerings) to the setting Sun. This is one of the most significant rituals.
- Day 4 – Usha Arghya: The final day of the festival involves offering prayers to the rising Sun, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and wellbeing.

3. Importance of the Sun:
The Sun God holds immense significance in Chhath Puja. He is worshipped for his life-sustaining energy, and the belief is that by offering prayers to him, devotees can ensure the health and prosperity of their families.

4. Significance of Cleanliness and Discipline:
Chhath Puja is known for its rigorous observances, including a strict fast (often without water), abstinence from certain foods, and detailed cleanliness during rituals. It requires significant physical and mental discipline, with devotees often standing in waist-deep water to offer prayers.

5. Community Aspect:
The festival is marked by large communal gatherings at riverbanks and ghats, where people come together to celebrate, perform rituals, and share food offerings. The unity and collective spirit of the festival are vital aspects of its celebration.

Chhath Puja is one of the few Hindu festivals where women are the primary participants, although men also join in the prayers and celebrations. The festival reflects deep respect for nature, particularly the Sun, and the eternal cycle of life.