Chhath Puja Has A Deep Connection With Goddess Sita: Learn About The Sacred Festival Of Bihar

Chhath Puja is a devotional festival mostly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It is also observed in other parts of the country like West Bengal, Nepal, etc. This vibrant Hindu festival is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his sister, Chhathi Maiya. It follows some rigorous rituals that include over four days of strict fasting and prayer. It is observed with deep devotion seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and well-being of loved ones and paying tribute to nature.

Did you know Chhath has a deep connection with Goddess Sita?

As per the history, Lord Rama and Sita observed the Chhath Puja rituals after their victorious return to Ayodhya. Ancient mythological tales suggest that Chhath Puja was also prevalent during the Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga, connected with powerful mythological figures. After their return to Ayodhya, Lord Rama and Sita performed the Chhath Puja. Sita performed the Chhath rituals to show her gratitude and respect toward the Sun God, she set a divine precedent for generations.

Due to this symbolic act, Sita’s legacy is engraved in the hearts of devotees who see Chhath Puja as an expression of strength, purity, and devotion. Other notable personalities that prove the festival’s connection to mythology and nature are Karna, who offered “Arghya” – a water-based prayer offering to the Sun every morning, and Draupadi, who celebrated Chhath during the Pandavas’ exile.

 

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Chhath Puja is a four-day festival

This divine puja follows a series of specific rituals that are followed for four days. Each
ritual carries a unique meaning.

• The first day, Nahay Khay (November 5, 2024), marks the beginning where devotees take a holy dip in a river or pond to purify themselves and have a satvik (pure and simple) meal.
• Day two, Kharna (November 6), is marked by intense fasting that is broken after sunset. A special offering is made to the Sun God in the evening, representing strength and faith. The fast is broken with a simple meal, followed by a strict 36-hour fast without food or water.

• Sandhya Arghya (November 7) is when the devotees immerse themselves in water to make offerings and pray to the setting sun while standing in water, usually at rivers or lakes.
• Usha Arghya (November 8) is the last ritual where devotees offer prayers and offerings to the rising sun, concluding the fast.

Chhath Puja Prasad and Offerings

Devotees generally prepare a wheat-based sweet like thekua, rice, fruits, and seasonal vegetables. These items to be offered are placed in bamboo baskets and offered while praying to the Sun God both during sunset and sunrise.

Chhath signifies unity and nature

Chhath Puja signifies the festive spirit as devotees from villages, towns, and cities, all come together to offer prayers. It reflects unity in family and communal bonding. The festival draws devotees who share their faith and reverence for the Sun God and the gifts of nature. Chhath Puja encourages the use of eco-friendly materials and promotes river cleanliness. It has a positive impact on local ecosystems.

In the end, Chhath Puja is all about devotion, discipline, and gratitude, as the devotees observe a challenging fast coupled with strict rituals, cultivating a strong spiritual connection.

Do you celebrate Chhath Puja? Let us know in the comments.