Chhath Puja 2024 in Nepal: History, Significance and Dates

Chhath Puja, one of Nepal's most celebrated festivals, is particularly significant in the Terai region. Dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya (the Goddess of Shashthi), this festival takes place after Tihar in the month of Kartik. Chhath is an expression of gratitude for the sun’s life-giving energy, with devotees offering prayers to ensure prosperity, health, and well-being. In recent years, Chhath Puja has grown in popularity across Nepal, with people from various regions joining in to celebrate this vibrant festival.

Chhath Puja traces its origins to ancient times when people recognized the sun as a source of life and healing. As the festival spread across cultures, it became deeply woven into Nepal's traditions, especially in regions closely linked to northern India, where Chhath Puja is widely observed. The four-day celebration involves fasting, bathing, and offering prayers to the sun at both sunrise and sunset, symbolizing purification and renewal.

The festival begins with Nahay Khay, a day of cleansing rituals. Devotees bathe in holy rivers or ponds, a practice believed to wash away sins and impurities. They prepare for the days ahead by eating simple, home-cooked vegetarian meals without onions or garlic, setting the spiritual tone for the festival.

On Kharna, devotees observe a strict fast, abstaining from food and water throughout the day. Just before sunset, they prepare the sacred food ‘kheer’ made from fresh rice, unrefined sugar, milk, and fruits. After consuming this prasad, devotees begin a 36-hour fast without water, symbolizing dedication and reverence.

Sandhya Arghya is the third day of Chhath Puja. Devotees prepare offerings such as ‘thekua’ and seasonal fruits, including bananas and coconuts. In the evening, families gather by rivers or ponds to offer ‘arghya’ (water offering) to the setting sun, singing traditional songs and celebrating together as a community.

The final day, Usha Arghya, is a beautiful culmination where devotees gather by the water before sunrise. They offer prayers to the rising sun, symbolizing a fresh start and renewed energy. After breaking their fast with a dip in the river or pond, they share the prasads and celebrate the blessings received during this sacred observance.

Chhath Puja has notable health, nutritional, and environmental benefits that underscore its importance:

Health Benefits: The early morning exposure to sunlight helps the body produce Vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function.

Nutritional Benefits of Prasad: Foods like kheer and thekua are simple and nutritious, providing energy and sustenance for fasting devotees.

Environmental Awareness: Chhath Puja highlights the importance of rivers and natural water bodies, fostering a sense of responsibility towards environmental preservation.

Solar Devotion and Sunlight Energy: The festival’s focus on the sun underscores the importance of sunlight for life, emphasizing both spiritual and practical connections to nature.

The foods prepared during Chhath Puja are simple yet symbolic. Devotees make prasad such as ‘kheer’ and ‘thekua,’ using fresh, natural ingredients. Seasonal fruits like bananas and coconuts are also essential, while items like onion, garlic, and meat are avoided to maintain purity.

Mark your calendars for Chhath Puja 2024:

Nahay Khay: November 5

Kharna: November 6

Sandhya Arghya: November 7

Usha Arghya: November 8

Each of these days holds deep significance, and together, they embody the spirit and devotion of this ancient festival.

Preparing for Chhath Puja requires gathering a few essential items. Here’s what you’ll need:

Puja Thali: For presenting offerings.

Bamboo Basket: To carry the prasad and other items.

Agarbatti (Incense Sticks): For the ritual.

Thekua and Kheer: Sacred foods for the puja.

Fruits (Sugarcane, Banana): Traditional fruits for the ritual.

Oil Lamp (Diyo): Used for the evening and morning rituals.

Flowers: To decorate the offerings.

Chhath Puja often involves being near water bodies, so here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

Check Water Depth: Be cautious around river or pond edges, especially with children.

Stay Hydrated: The fast can be demanding; ensure you stay hydrated before starting.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables safe, especially in crowded areas.

Supervise Children: Watch young children closely near the water.

Follow Safety Measures: Practice common sense to make sure everyone enjoys the celebrations safely.

Chhath Puja is a profound celebration that honors the sun and nature, connecting families and communities with ancient traditions. By following each day’s rituals and respecting nature, we carry forward a legacy of gratitude, devotion, and respect. As we celebrate Chhath Puja, let’s embrace the joy and warmth it brings and share these moments with loved ones.