Chhath Puja 2023 kab hai kasi manaye
Chhath Puja 2023: A Comprehensive Guide to the Ancient Sun Worship Festival
Chhath Puja, a four-day Hindu festival, is a celebration of the Sun God Surya and his sister Usha, also known as Chhathi Maiya. It is one of the most significant festivals in Eastern India, particularly in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Nepal. The festival is characterized by its rigorous rituals, strict fasting, and unwavering devotion to the Sun God. In 2023, Chhath Puja will be observed from November 17 to 20.
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja holds immense religious and cultural significance. It is believed that Surya, the Sun God, is the life-giver and the source of all energy. Devotees offer prayers and sacrifices to Surya in gratitude for his blessings and to seek his protection. Chhath Puja is also associated with the belief that it brings prosperity, happiness, and good health to the devotees and their families.
Rituals and Observances of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is marked by a series of rituals and observances that reflect the deep devotion of the devotees. The four-day festival is divided into four stages:
1. Nahay-Khay (Holy Bath and Purification)
On the first day, devotees take a holy bath in a sacred river or pond, symbolizing the purification of body and soul. They then wear clean clothes and prepare offerings for the Sun God.
2. Kharna (One-Meal Feast)
On the second day, devotees observe a strict fast, consuming only a single meal of kharna, a prasad made of rice, gur (jaggery), and fruits. The fast is a symbol of self-discipline and devotion.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering to the Setting Sun)
On the third day, devotees gather at riverbanks or ghats to offer prayers and offerings to the setting sun. They stand waist-deep in the water, holding a bamboo basket filled with fruits, sweets, and thecakua (a special sweet dish made of rice flour and jaggery). The setting sun is considered to be the manifestation of Surya, and the offering is a symbol of gratitude and reverence.
4. Usha Arghya (Morning Offering to the Rising Sun)
On the final day, devotees gather again at the ghats before dawn to offer prayers and offerings to the rising sun. The rising sun is seen as the symbol of new beginnings and hope. After offering the arghya, devotees break their fast and consume prasad shared by fellow devotees.
Chhath Puja: A Festival of Faith and Devotion
Chhath Puja is a testament to the deep-rooted faith and devotion of its devotees. The festival's rigorous rituals and unwavering devotion to the Sun God are a reflection of the belief in the power of nature and the importance of seeking blessings from the divine. Chhath Puja is not just a religious festival; it is also a celebration of life, family, and community. It is a time for devotees to come together, reaffirm their faith, and express gratitude for the blessings in their lives.
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