Essay on Chhath Puja

 

Essay on Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is one of the most ancient and significant festivals celebrated mainly in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of West Bengal, as well as in Nepal. This festival is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya Dev) and his consort, Chhathi Maiya (Usha, the Goddess of dawn). It is observed with great devotion and purity to thank the Sun for sustaining life on earth and to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness.

The festival generally falls six days after Diwali, during the Hindu month of Kartika (October–November). It is celebrated for four consecutive days, each day having special significance and rituals. On the first day, known as Nahay Khay, devotees bathe in a holy river and eat only one meal prepared with great purity. The second day, Kharna, involves fasting from sunrise to sunset, which is broken in the evening after offering kheer, gur, and fruits to the Sun God. On the third day, Sandhya Arghya, devotees observe a strict fast without water and offer arghya (water offering) to the setting sun at riverbanks or ponds, accompanied by devotional songs. The final day, Usha Arghya, begins before dawn, when devotees offer prayers and arghya to the rising sun to mark the end of the fast.

Chhath Puja is unique because of its strict discipline, cleanliness, and eco-friendly practices. No idols are worshipped, and all offerings are natural, symbolizing harmony with nature. The festival reflects the deep connection between human life and the environment, emphasizing gratitude and purity of mind and body. Women, often called Parvaitin, mainly lead the rituals and observe the fast on behalf of their families.

Culturally, Chhath Puja is a festival of faith, unity, and devotion. The sight of devotees standing in rivers with folded hands as the sun rises or sets is both peaceful and spiritual. Traditional songs and folk rituals fill the atmosphere with devotion and community spirit.

In conclusion, Chhath Puja is not just a religious observance but a celebration of nature, discipline, and faith. It reminds us to live in gratitude towards the natural forces that sustain life and to uphold purity, patience, and devotion in our lives.