Chhath Puja is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in India, Nepal, and some parts of the United States and Canada. This festival is dedicated to worshipping the Sun God and his consort, Chhathi Maiya. It is celebrated twice a year – once during the month of Chaitra (April-May) and once during the month of Kartik (October-November). This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, and is considered to be one of the most important festivals in Hinduism.
History of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is an ancient festival that dates back to the Vedic period. It is believed to have originated in the eastern part of India, in the present-day states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The festival is mentioned in the Rig Veda, the oldest Hindu scripture, and is believed to have been celebrated since the time of the Vedic period. The festival is also mentioned in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, two of the most important Hindu epics.
When to Celebrate Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is celebrated twice a year – once during the month of Chaitra (April-May) and once during the month of Kartik (October-November). The festival is celebrated for four days, starting from the first day of the Shukla Paksha (the bright half of the lunar month). On the fourth day of the festival, Chhathi Maiya is worshipped and offerings are made to the Sun God. This year it was celebrated in the Chaitra month , from 25th April to 28th April. it will be celebrated in the month of Kartika from 17th November to 20th November.
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is celebrated to offer thanks to the Sun God for providing the Earth with light and energy. It is believed that worshipping the Sun God will bring prosperity and health to the family. The festival is also a way to seek blessings for the family and to ask for forgiveness for any wrongdoings.
How to Celebrate Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. The devotees fast for three days On the first day of the festival, devotees take a holy dip in the river and make offerings to the Sun God. On the second day, they prepare special dishes such as kheer and puri. On the third day, offer prayers to the Sun God. On the fourth day, the Sun God is worshipped and offerings are made.
Summary
Chhath Puja is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in India, Nepal, and some parts of the United States and Canada. It is celebrated twice a year – once during the month of Chaitra (April-May) and once during the month of Kartik (October-November). This festival is celebrated to offer thanks to the Sun God for providing the Earth with light and energy. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, and involves taking a holy dip in the river, preparing special dishes, fasting, and offering prayers to the Sun God.
You can explore other festivals such as Durga Puja and Ganesh Chaturthi.