Chhath Puja is an important Hindu festival which is celebrated mainly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. This year it will be celebrated on October 26th. According to Hindu religion, Sun is believed to be an ultimate source of energy. It is believed to heal health condition and ensure longevity of life. People celebrate this festival which lasts four days. The rituals include fasting, holy bathing, offering prayers to rising and setting sun and meditating by standing in the water.
In states like Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern UP, Nepal, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chandigarh, Chattisgarh, Chatth is celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Chhath Puja 2017 Date and Timings
Chhath Puja is also celebrated to worship Lord Shiva, one of the three gods who are responsible for the proper functioning of the world. This year, Chhath Puja will be celebrated from October 24th to October 27th. Women of the family observe fasts for the well-being of their family members.
How is Chhath Puja celebrated?
The festival is celebrate for four days, each having its set of traditions and activities.
Day one - Nahay Khay – devotees dip in water and women take a single meal
Day two – Kharna – fasting takes place from sunrise to the sunset, with the fast-breaking after dark
Day three - Sanjhiya Gha – a fast is observed and devotees offer worship to the setting sun
Day four - Usha Argya – the fast is broken and worship is offered to the rising sun
Why is Sun God worshipped during Chhath?
Hindus celebrate this festival to thank Sun God for its blessing and for enabling life on the Earth. People pray to Sun God and request the granting of their wishes. Prayers are offered up to The Jeet, who is considered as the god of energy and the life-force.
Why Hindus believe the Sun God will cure diseases?
According to Hindus, the sun’s rays are extremely important for the existence of life. It has healing properties and can ensure the longevity of family members and elders. In one of the Matras of holy text Atharvaveda, Sun is believed to destroy death and disease.
Thus, Hindus pray to Sun God in the morning with their face towards east so that the first rays of rising sun fall on their chest.
