Chhat Puja 2025 in India

Chhath Puja is a prominent festival in India, primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. Devotees honor the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya by performing rituals, fasting, and offering prayers at rivers and water bodies, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being.

Chhat Puja: A Public Holiday?

Chhath Puja is a public holiday in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, where offices, schools, and businesses remain closed for celebrations. In other parts of India, it is often observed as an optional holiday, allowing individuals to take the day off if listed under their optional holiday choices.

Chhat Puja

Chhath Puja, also known as Pratihar Sashthi, Surya Sashthi, or Dala Chhath, is an ancient Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya. Its origins can be traced back to the Vedic period, where rituals were performed to honor natural forces and deities for health and prosperity. The festival is mentioned in ancient texts and mythology, including stories of Draupadi and the Pandavas performing rituals to seek blessings. Over time, it evolved as a significant festival in Indian culture, particularly in northern and eastern states, where it is celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm.

Chhath Puja in India has been primarily associated with the regions of Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. These areas, known for their agricultural heritage, have traditionally celebrated the Sun God as the source of energy and life. As communities migrated, the festival spread to urban areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and other parts of the country and is now celebrated with equal fervor. The simplicity of rituals and collective devotion have helped Chhath Puja remain integral to Indian cultural and spiritual practices.

Chhat Puja Celebration in India

Chhath Puja spans four days and is marked by rigorous rituals and fasting.

• On the first day, devotees clean their homes and take a holy dip in rivers to purify themselves.
• The second day involves fasting without water, ending with a light meal in the evening.
• The third day is dedicated to preparing offerings, including thekua (a traditional sweet), and performing the evening ritual called Sandhya Arghya, where devotees offer prayers to the setting sun at riverbanks or water bodies.
• The fourth and final day is Usha Arghya, where prayers are offered to the rising sun, concluding with breaking the fast.

The festival holds immense significance in Indian culture, symbolizing gratitude towards the Sun God for sustaining life on earth. It also represents discipline, devotion, and harmony, bringing families and communities together. By promoting eco-friendly practices, such as the use of natural materials for offerings, Chhath Puja reflects a deep respect for nature and its resources. This vibrant festival is a beautiful expression of India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Chhat Puja Observances