New Delhi: The festival of lights, Diwali sees a celebration filled with fervour across the nation. But for the residents of Bihar, there is another festival that holds equal significance. Chhath Puja is to Bihar what Durga Puja is to West Bengal.
Most of us have images of women standing at the bank of a river praying to the Sun god in our mind, whenever Chhath is mentioned. All the stories we have heard about the festival from our Bihari friend, who is never short of Chhath tales.
As the four day festival starts on 4th November, we list to you 5 reasons why every Bihari longs to be at home during this festival.
The Sun God:
Sun is said to be the supreme deity who represents will-power, fame, the eyes, general vitality, courage and kingship. Worshipping the Sun God purifies one's soul, a reason why no one wishes to stay away from home during Chhath.
Willpower:
If you are feeling low, Chhath Puja can cheer you up and we bet every Bihari will swear by it. The willpower which the one who are on fast show, convinces everyone that nothing is difficult.
Kheer of Kharna:
Chhath is surrounded by divinity all over. On the second day, called Kharna, the devotees observe a day's fast. They stay away from food and water till sunset. When the sun sets, they break their fast with kheer which is cooked on authentic wood. The kheer tastes delectable, something no one wishes to miss.
Thekua:
Well, you can call it Bihari cookie too. Made from wheat flour, ghee and melted sugar, the best part of Chhath Puja are thekuas which are served as Prasad. If you are a Bihari, you will understand why thekua holds more importance than cakes and biscuits.
Arghya excitement:
So, India is the land of festivals but there are rare ones where you leave your home and perform the puja on the banks of a river. Chhath Puja calls for a celebration like this. There is an enthusiasm to get ready to head to a river with your family and pay respects to the Sun God. Also, floating diyas are a treat to the eyes especially during the morning.
While most of these reasons are enough to make every Bihari long for home, a video is going viral that captures the essence of the festival. This video is being shared by many and tells that staying away from home is not easy during this time.
