Chhath Puja, a sacred festival celebrated in honor of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, holds immense spiritual and cultural significance, especially in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Nepal. Observed with devotion and deep-rooted traditions, this festival takes place during the Kartik month and is regarded as one of the most auspicious celebrations in the Hindu calendar. During this Chhath Puja people worshipped their children, family protection, blessings of career, and prosperity
Chhath Puja 2024: Date and Muhurat
This year, Chhath Puja 2024 will be observed from November 5 to November 8. The festival spans four days, comes after Diwali festival, each marked by distinct rituals and significance. For devotees wondering Chhath Puja kab hai and looking for the precise timings, here’s the detailed schedule:
- Nahai-Khay (First Day) – November 5, 2024: Devotees begin with purification by bathing in holy rivers and consuming a single meal prepared in the purest form.
- Kharna (Second Day) – November 6, 2024: This fasting day ends with a simple, sacred meal, marking the beginning of Nirjala Vrat (fast without water) for the next 36 hours.
- Sandhya Arghya (Third Day) – November 7, 2024: Devotees gather at riverbanks to offer evening arghya (prayers) to the setting Sun, with offerings in bamboo baskets.
- Subah Arghya (Final Day) – November 8, 2024: At sunrise, the final prayer is offered to the rising Sun to conclude the festival, with blessings sought for prosperity and well-being.
This Kartik Chhath Puja 2024, devotees across the globe will come together to honor Surya Bhagwan (Sun God) during these auspicious timings, guided by the panchang for exact sunrise and sunset details.
Time Table
- 06-Nov-2024 – Kahrna Puja
- 07-Nov-2024 – Sandhya Arag (इस दिन सूर्यास्त शाम 5 बजकर 29 मिनट पर है )
- 08-Nov-2024 – Pratahkal Arag (इस दिन सूर्योदय सुबह 6 बजकर 37 मिनट पर है।)
Why Do We Celebrate Chhath Puja?
The origins of Chhath Puja are deeply embedded in ancient Hindu scriptures. This festival, which includes worshiping the Sun God and his sister, Chhathi Maiya, reflects gratitude for sustaining life on Earth. According to legend, Lord Rama and Sita performed this worship upon their return to Ayodhya, and another tale from the Mahabharata depicts Draupadi and the Pandavas observing Chhath for prosperity and success in reclaiming their kingdom. The Chhath Puja story also features Karna, son of Surya, who was blessed with strength and resilience through his devotion to the Sun.
The story of Chhath Puja
The story of Chhath Puja is a tale rich in devotion and mythology, drawing from several Hindu legends that highlight the power and significance of the Sun God, Surya, and his sister, Chhathi Maiya. This ancient festival centers around the worship of Surya for life, health, and prosperity, and Chhathi Maiya for protection and blessings.
Here are some stories Of Chhath Puja:
- The Legend of Our Lord Rama and Goddess Sita
According to the Ramayana, after returning to Ayodhya from a 14-year exile and defeating Ravana, Lord Rama and Sita observed a fast and performed a ritual in honor of Surya. They prayed to the Sun God for the welfare of their people and offered arghya (water offering) to Surya. This event took place during the Kartik month, marking the origins of Chhath Puja as a ritual of gratitude and devotion. Since then, it has become a tradition for people to celebrate Chhath during this month to seek blessings of health and happiness.
- The Story of Draupadi and the Pandavas
Another tale from the Mahabharata suggests that Draupadi and the Pandavas observed Chhath Puja while in exile. Facing hardships and seeking a path to reclaim their kingdom, they prayed to Surya for strength and prosperity. Their devotion was answered, and they eventually regained their kingdom with the blessings of the Sun God. This story reflects the belief that Chhath Puja grants resilience, protection, and success.
- Karna, the Warrior Devotee of Surya
Karna, the great warrior from the Mahabharata and the son of Surya and Kunti, was known for his unwavering devotion to the Sun God. It is believed that Karna would pray to Surya every morning while standing in water and offering arghya. His devotion made him strong, radiant, and invincible in battle. Many devotees observe Chhath Puja to emulate Karna’s dedication to Surya, hoping to gain blessings for strength and resilience in life.
- The Story of King Priyavrat and Shashthi Devi
As per the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, there was a king named Priyavrat who had no children, which caused him and his wife, Malini, great sorrow. They performed a yajna as advised by Maharishi Kashyap, and soon after, the queen gave birth to a son. Tragically, the child was born lifeless. Distraught, the king and queen prayed fervently, and Shashthi Devi (Chhathi Maiya) appeared before them. She revived the child and blessed the family. Since then, Chhathi Maiya has been worshiped as the goddess of fertility and protection for children. This legend is a cornerstone of Chhath Puja, where devotees seek her blessings for family prosperity and child welfare.
These stories form the spiritual foundation of Chhath Puja, showing it as a time for devotees to express gratitude to Surya and seek blessings for their families. Through fasting, prayers, and dedication, worshippers connect with the divine forces believed to bring prosperity, health, and happiness into their lives.
Significance of Chhath Puja
The festival is renowned for its emphasis on purity, discipline, and commitment. Devotees undertake rigorous fasts, standing in rivers and offering prayers during sunrise and sunset to gain divine blessings. This devotion is believed to cleanse sins, promote harmony with nature, and ensure the health and prosperity of one’s family. Chhath Puja significance also lies in its alignment with natural elements, encouraging balance and gratitude toward the environment. Moreover, the puja’s astrological impact is profound, as it is said to benefit those seeking to strengthen the Sun’s influence in their lives.
The Importance of Chhath Puja 2024
Chhath Puja transcends simple ritual and is celebrated with immense faith and love. Devotees believe that this worship purifies their soul and grants protection from misfortune. By observing this festival, they seek blessings for longevity, health, and success in their endeavors. The annual tradition fosters community unity as families and friends gather at rivers and ponds, creating a spirit of togetherness that enhances the festive experience.
At Astral Foresight, we recognize the dedication and spiritual importance of Chhath Puja. As families come together to celebrate this sacred tradition, may the blessings of Surya Bhagwan and Chhathi Maiya bring joy, prosperity, and health to all.
Whether you are celebrating near a river or in your home, Chhath Puja 2024 reminds us all of the importance of gratitude, purity, and family. From everyone at Astral Foresight, we wish you a blessed and harmonious Chhath Puja filled with the divine light of the Sun God!