Mumbai: Chhath Puja, a revered Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, will be celebrated with immense devotion from November 5 to November 8, 2024, across India and Nepal. Known for its series of rituals focused on prayers for health, prosperity, and well-being, this four-day festival holds profound cultural and spiritual importance, particularly for communities in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Chhath Puja’s origins are rooted in ancient traditions, with some tracing its inception to Queen Karnavati, whose devout prayers for her son’s health established the festival’s timeless significance.
Every year, Chhath Puja is observed twice – in the months of Chaitra (Chaiti Chhath) and Kartik, with Kartik Chhath holding greater significance for devotees. This year’s Kartik Chhath begins on November 5 with “Nahay Khay” and concludes on November 8 with “Usha Arghya,” drawing thousands of devotees, including those from overseas, who return home to take part in the vibrant celebrations. The festival is unique in its environmentally conscious practices, where offerings, known as “Arghya,” are made to both the setting and rising sun, signifying gratitude and reverence to the Sun God.
Chhath Puja Dates and Rituals Schedule for 2024
Date
Day
Ritual
November 5
Tuesday
Nahay Khay
November 6
Wednesday
Kharna
November 7
Thursday
November 8
Friday
Detailed Schedule for Chhath Puja 2024
The main day of Chhath Puja falls on the Kartik Shukla Shashti (sixth lunar day) of the Hindu calendar, marking a period of intense devotion and community involvement. Shashti Tithi commences on November 7 at 12:41 AM and concludes on November 8 at 12:34 AM. The evening offering, Sandhya Arghya, takes place on November 7, followed by the morning offering, Usha Arghya, on November 8, symbolically concluding the festival.
Rituals of Chhath Puja
Nahay Khay (November 5, 2024): The festival begins with a ritual bath and a meal consisting of rice, pumpkin, and dal, symbolising purity and spiritual cleansing. Devotees prepare for the days ahead with dedication, marking the first step of their observance.
Kharna (November 6, 2024): Devotees fast throughout the day, which is only broken after sunset. A simple meal, usually rice pudding and chapati, follows the prayers. After this, devotees observe a stringent 36-hour waterless fast, displaying unwavering commitment and faith.
Sandhya Arghya (November 7, 2024): The main event of Chhath Puja unfolds as devotees gather along water bodies to offer “Arghya” to the setting sun, a profound ritual symbolising gratitude. This ceremony draws the largest gatherings and exemplifies the cultural unity and devotion inherent in Chhath Puja.
Usha Arghya (November 8, 2024): The concluding ritual, Usha Arghya, involves an offering to the rising sun, symbolising new beginnings and blessings. Devotees, having completed their fast, distribute prasad among family and friends, marking the festival’s joyful and communal spirit.
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is celebrated with the belief that the Sun God blesses worshippers with health, happiness, and prosperity. Traditionally observed near rivers or ponds, particularly along the Ganga River, this festival exemplifies a harmonious relationship with nature. Beyond individual devotion, Chhath Puja brings families and communities together, reinforcing social bonds and cultural continuity across generations.
This year’s celebration of Chhath Puja invites all devotees to immerse themselves in rituals that honour both tradition and nature, reaffirming faith and unity through age-old practices.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
Chhath Puja 2024, a festival of deep devotion, will be observed from November 5 to November 8 across India and Nepal. Marked by traditional rituals like Nahay Khay, Kharna, and Arghya, this festival is dedicated to the Sun God, symbolising health, prosperity, and family well-being. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
