Chhath Puja Festival Kicks Off with Nahay Khay Ritual
Celebration of Chhath Puja Begins
Representational Image
New Delhi, Nov 13: The Chhath Puja festival commenced on Friday, marked by the traditional 'Nahay Khay' ritual, which is a significant event dedicated to the veneration of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
The initial day focuses on rituals emphasizing cleanliness, purity, and devotion. Devotees rise early to take a sacred bath in rivers, ponds, or at home, often mixing Ganga water with their bathing water, and meticulously clean their homes and kitchens before the festivities begin.
A special satvik meal is prepared for this occasion, with devotees typically enjoying boiled rice, chana dal, and kaddu (bottle gourd or pumpkin) curry. Great care is taken to ensure cleanliness and purity in food preparation, as this marks the start of the strict religious observances associated with the festival.
Originating from Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja is now celebrated with great devotion in various regions across the country. The festival takes place after Diwali and Bhai Dooj, holding particular importance for families seeking blessings from the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
This year's festivities will last from Friday until November 16, featuring four key rituals: 'Nahay Khay', 'Kharna', 'Sandhya Arghya', and 'Usha Arghya'. The primary worship occurs on the sixth day of the bright fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik, when devotees offer prayers to both the setting and rising Sun.
Chhath Puja is known by various names, including Surya Shashthi, Chhath, Chhathi, Chhath Parv, Dala Puja, and Dala Chhath. It is particularly linked to the well-being of children, the longevity of family members, and the prosperity of households.
Throughout the four-day observance, devotees, especially women, engage in a strict fast and adhere to prescribed rituals with deep faith. They pray for the long life, good health, and bright futures of their children, while also seeking happiness, peace, and prosperity for their families.
Religious beliefs suggest that worshipping the Sun God during Kartik brings health, happiness, and success. The festival is also significant in Hindu tradition due to its connection with Shashthi Tithi, which is believed to confer blessings for the longevity and well-being of children.
A distinctive aspect of Chhath Puja is the offering of Arghya to the Sun, first at sunset and then at sunrise. Through these rituals, devotees express their gratitude to the Sun God, who is viewed as the source of life and energy, and seek divine blessings for their families.
With Nahay Khay setting the stage for the celebrations, devotees have begun to observe the festival with discipline, devotion, and a strong focus on purity.