How to celebrate the four day’s of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja, a captivating festival deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, stands as a testament to the reverence and gratitude bestowed upon the Sun God, Surya. Spanning four days, this sacred observance is celebrated with immense devotion and unwavering faith, embodying the profound connection between humanity and the celestial realm.

Nahay-Khay: Cleansing and Preparation

The journey of Chhath Puja commences with Nahay-Khay, a day dedicated to purification and preparation. Devotees meticulously cleanse their homes and themselves, symbolizing the shedding of impurities and the embrace of a sacred state of being. A sumptuous feast, devoid of onions and garlic, is consumed to replenish energy for the rigorous rituals that lie ahead.

Kharna: Embracing the ‘Nirjala’ Vrat

Kharna marks the beginning of the 36-hour ‘Nirjala’ vrat, a rigorous fast where devotees abstain from food and water. This profound act of self-discipline is believed to purify the body and soul, fostering a deeper connection with the divine. In the evening, a special prasad, known as Kheer, is consumed amidst the chanting of soulful devotional hymns.

Sandhya Arghya: Offering Gratitude to the Setting Sun

As the sun begins its descent, devotees gather at river banks or designated sacred ghats, preparing for the Sandhya Arghya. With reverence and humility, they offer offerings of water, milk, and fruits to the setting sun, expressing gratitude for its life-sustaining energy. The vibrant hues of the setting sun paint the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that mirrors the radiant spirit of the occasion.

Usha Arghya: Welcoming the Rising Sun

Before the break of dawn, devotees once again gather at the ghats, eagerly awaiting the Usha Arghya, a tribute to the rising sun. As the first rays of sunlight pierce the darkness, they offer arghya, acknowledging the sun’s role in illuminating the world and sustaining life. The rising sun’s golden glow symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, instilling hope and rejuvenation.

Rules For Observing Chhath Puja

There are a number of rules that devotees must follow during Chhath Puja. These rules are designed to ensure that the festival is observed with purity, devotion, and respect.

• Purity: Devotees must maintain physical and mental purity throughout the festival. They should bathe regularly, wear clean clothes, and avoid any activities that could be considered impure.
• Devotion: Devotees should approach the festival with a sincere and devoted heart. They should offer prayers regularly, sing devotional songs, and meditate on the divine nature of Surya and Chhathi Maiya.
• Respect: Devotees should treat the sun god and Chhathi Maiya with the utmost respect. They should offer arghya with reverence, and they should avoid any actions that could be considered disrespectful.

Additional Rules

• Devotees should observe a strict vegetarian diet during the festival.
• Devotees should avoid consuming alcohol or intoxicants.
• Devotees should not wear leather or fur.
• Devotees should not sleep on the floor.
• Devotees should not enter the house of a person who is menstruating.

Chhath Puja culminates with a sense of profound fulfillment and spiritual awakening. Devotees break their fast with prasad, sharing the sacred offering with family and friends. The festival leaves an indelible mark on their hearts, reinforcing their connection to the divine and the natural world. Chhath Puja is a beautiful and meaningful festival that celebrates the sun god Surya and his wife Chhathi Maiya. By following the rules of the festival, devotees can ensure that they are observing it in a way that is pure, devoted, and respectful.

🙏🙏🙏Jai Chhathi Maiya🙏🙏🙏