Chhath Puja: A Celebration of Sun Worship

We can surely say that there is no festival like Chhath Puja, and that has to be true because of a lot of things, the one that tops them all includes rigorous fasting. In the vibrant tapestry of Indian festivals, Chhath Puja shines bright. We mean every festival has something unique about it and so does this one. Chhath Puja stands as a testament to ancient traditions and unwavering devotion. We say unwavering devotion because when you go to the riverside and see the devotees performing different rituals, it just gives you goosebumps. It is beautiful to see people have that kind of faith in a higher power. The visuals at the riverside are just beyond amazing.

This sacred celebration honours the divine energy of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. It is not a two-day festival that most people assume, but it is ongoing over four poignant days. Chhath Puja is a poignant display of faith, gratitude, and selfless love. From ritualistic fasting to majestic riverbank ceremonies, this festival weaves together community, culture, and spirituality. The entire family or sometimes even the entire neighbourhood comes together to celebrate this festival.

Now, just like any other Indian festival, even Chhath Puja has lots of stories and mythological relations to it. But not everyone knows it. Many states in India are completely unaware of this festival and its importance in certain parts of the country (mainly Bihar, Jharkhand, and UP). Some people are totally even in shock to know that Chhath Puja also has scientific importance.

This is the reason we thought to decode it all in this blog. You can join us as we delve into the significance, rituals, and timeless essence of Chhath Puja, a celebration that illuminates the path to hope, harmony, and inner light. Come, have a relaxed read!

Why sun is worshipped in the Chhath Puja?

Every Indian festival has a relation with some Gods and has some sort of mythological reference. The same goes with Chhath Puja. The main Gods that are worshipped in Chhath Puja are Surya Dev (Sun God or the Sun) and Chhathi Maiya. But, if you don’t know the story, you might be wondering why is the Sun God being worshipped in this puja and that too while standing in the water. So, let’s talk about that right here.

Chhath Puja, a sacred solar festival, venerates Surya, the Sun God, and his divine companion, Goddess Chhathi Mai/Usha. Derived from “Shasthi,” meaning the sixth day of the new moon, this celebration underscores the significance of light, life, and spiritual nourishment. Chhath Puja is a celebration to honour Sun God Surya, thanking him for giving life and seeking his blessings for happiness, harmony, and health. It is believed that Surya Dev is the ultimate energy giver on this planet, and hence, the devotees pray to them. Chhath Puja is a thanksgiving festival for the sun, which gives us life, light, and energy.

What is the relationship between Sun and Chhathi Maiya?

Chhathi Maiya is the caring guardian of children and Sun God Surya’s sister. She’s also known as Shashthi, born from Lord Brahma’s mind. Together, Surya and Chhathi Maiya are revered as sibling deities, protecting and nurturing all. So, it is believed that God Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya are siblings.

Which god is Chhathi Maiya?

On the auspicious festival of Chhath, Chhathi Maiya is prayed to. People call her Chhathi Maiya, which means Chhath mother. Chhathi Maiya is known as Usha in the Vedas. She is believed to be the consort of Surya, the sun god.

Why is Chhath called Chhathi Maiya?

Chhath Puja celebrates the Sun God and Goddess Chhathi Maiya. She’s also known as Usha or Rana Mai in different regions. Chhathi Maiya is considered the Sun God’s sister. Chhath is basically the festival, but Chhathi Maiya is the Goddess that is prayed to on this festival. Chhathi Maiya, as we mentioned, is just a regional way to call Chhath Goddess as Chhathi Maiya.

The Two Types of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is celebrated twice in a year. One is Chaiti Chhath, which happens during the Chaitra Navratri month (in March – April). Since it is celebrated in the Chaitra month, it is called Chaiti Chhath. The next Chhath Puja happens after Diwali, in October – November. The one that is celebrated after Diwali is the main one which is widely celebrated.

Why is Chhath Puja essentially a festival of UP and Bihar?

This festival traces its history back to ancient times when people worshipped nature. The epic tale of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita’s homecoming to Ayodhya after defeating Lanka is also closely tied to Chhath Puja. According to legend, they observed a fast and performed a yagna to pay homage to the Sun God. Since they lived in Ayodhya, which is in UP, people from that state started celebrating Chhath Puja as one of their major festivals. This is where the popularity of this festival spread out to the entire UP and then Bihar and Jharkhand. It is also celebrated in some parts of Nepal.

Conclusion

With the final Arghya being offered to the rising sun, Chhath Puja’s rituals for the year come to a peaceful end. This is one of the most ancient festivals that is steeped in tradition and devotion. This festival reminds us of the eternal power of faith. The beautiful Chhath Puja is spread over four poignant days where the devotees have fasted, prayed wholeheartedly for the well-being of their families, and sought the divine blessings of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. With the final Arghya, Chhath Puja’s sacred journey concludes, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and community.

May this ancient festival’s timeless spirit guide us toward hope, resilience, and harmony, illuminating our paths and nourishing our souls. The rigorous fasts, the heartfelt prayers, and the selfless acts of devotion have purified the mind, body, and soul. The festival’s emphasis on cleanliness, simplicity, and gratitude has inspired us to reexamine our priorities and reconnect with the essence of life. With the blessings of Chhath Maiya and the Sun God, may we embark on a journey of hope, harmony, and spiritual growth, spreading love, light, and joy to all those around us.  Happy Chhath Puja to one and all!

We can surely say that there is no festival like Chhath Puja, and that has to be true because of a lot of things, the one that tops them all includes rigorous fasting. In the vibrant tapestry of Indian festivals, Chhath Puja shines bright. We mean every festival has something unique about it and so…