Chaiti Chhath Puja in Hindu Traditions
The Hindu festival of Chhath Puja is dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya (the Goddess of well-being and fertility). The celebration is primarily concentrated in the regions of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. Unlike the October-November observance of Kartik Chhath, Chaiti Chhath falls within the month of Chaitra (March-April), initiating the Hindu New Year.
The observance of Chhath Puja includes devout fasting, ablutions in holy rivers, and the presentation of prayers to both the rising and setting sun. The festival embodies purity, gratitude, and a profound human-nature connection.
Worship of the Sun God (Surya Dev)
Surya Dev, the Sun God, is regarded as a symbol of vitality, well-being, and affluence. Chhath Puja observances include prayers to the Sun God, believed by devotees to grant health, happiness, and success.
Chhathi Maiya is revered as the patron goddess of children, fertility, and motherhood. The well-being of their families, especially the longevity and prosperity of their children, is the subject of women’s prayers.
The Hindu mythological tradition details how Kunti, through worship of Surya Dev, gave birth to Karna, who achieved renown as a great warrior. Karna’s religious practices, in emulation of Chhath Puja, demonstrated his devout following of Surya Dev.
Tradition holds that Lord Rama and Goddess Sita celebrated Chhath Puja after completing their fourteen-year exile and returning to Ayodhya.
Chaiti Chhath follows the same four-day ritualistic pattern as Kartik Chhath, with fasting, river bathing, and prayers.
1. Nahay-Khay (First Day)
2. Lohanda and Kharna (Second Day)
3. Sandhya Arghya (Third Day – Evening Offering)
4. Usha Arghya (Fourth Day – Morning Offering)
May Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya bless all with peace, prosperity, and well-being! 🙏🌞