Chhath Puja 2023: Date, Muhurta, Pujan Vidhi

Introduction:

Chhath Puja, a vibrant and ancient Hindu festival, is celebrated with immense fervor and devotion. Chhath Puja dedicates worship to the Sun God, Surya, and goddess Usha, the dawn, marking an auspicious celebration. As we anticipate celebrating Chhath Puja 2023, explore the festival’s significance, rituals, and unique cultural spirit in this insightful journey.

Significance of Chhath Puja:

Chhath Puja holds great cultural and spiritual significance, especially in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. Devotees express gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life and seek blessings for family well-being during Chhath Puja. The festival is also associated with purity, discipline, and a connection with nature.

Date, Puja muhurat timings:

Chhath Puja is celebrated on the sixth day of the Kartik month. The following is the four-day muhurat for dawn and sunset.

1st Day (Nahay Khay): It is called Chaturthi which will be observed on November 17 from 06.45 AM to 05.27 PM.

2nd Day (Lohanda and Kharna): It is called Panchami which will be observed on November 18 from 06.46 AM to 05.26 PM.

3rd Day (Chhath Puja, Sandhya Arghya): Also known as Shashthi, will be marked on November 19 from 06.46 AM to 05.26 PM.

4th Day (Usha Arghya, Parana Day): Also known as Ashtami, will be marked on November 20 from 06.32 AM to 05.37 PM.

Rituals of Chhath Puja:

1. Nahay Khay (First Day): The festival begins with Nahay Khay, during which devotees take a dip in a sacred river or pond and prepare a meal known as “kaddu bhat” (flavored rice and gourd). This meal is then offered to the Sun God.
2. Kharna (Second Day): On the second day, devotees observe a fast throughout the day, breaking it only in the evening after sunset. The ritual involves preparing kheer (sweet rice porridge) and chapatis, which are offered to the deities.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Third Day): Devotees gather on the banks of rivers or other water bodies during the evening to make offerings to the setting sun. The rituals include standing in water and offering fruits, sugarcane, and other traditional items to the Sun God.
4. Usha Arghya (Fourth Day): The final day, also known as Usha Arghya, involves making offerings to the rising sun. Devotees gather before sunrise, and the offerings are made with deep devotion, marking the conclusion of the Chhath Puja festivities.

Spirit and Celebration:

Chhath Puja is not just a religious event; it is a celebration that fosters community spirit and familial bonds. Families come together to observe the rituals, share traditional meals, and participate in the collective worship of the Sun God. The festival transcends social and economic boundaries, uniting people in a common cultural thread.

In the modern era, Chhath Puja has expanded its reach beyond its traditional regions. People from various parts of India and the world now participate in the celebrations, contributing to the festival’s rich tapestry of diversity.

Conclusion:

Chhath Puja 2023 brings with it a pledge for spiritual renewal, community bonding, and reconnection with nature’s essence.. As we celebrate this ancient festival, let us embrace the traditions, rituals, and the sense of unity it brings. Chhath Puja is a time to express Gratitude for the sun’s energy and honoring divine forces shaping our existence. May this festival bring joy, prosperity, and blessings to all who partake in its rituals.