Common questions about IAS, our mission, and how you can be part of this spiritual movement.
Chhath Puja is special because devotees worship both the setting and rising Sun, expressing gratitude to Surya Dev for life, energy, and prosperity. It is known for its strict fasting, purity, simplicity, and devotion. It is especially popular in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal.
The main worshippers of Chhath Puja are called Vratis (व्रती). They observe fasting, follow strict rituals, and offer Arghya to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.
The Arya tradition refers to the ancient Vedic cultural and religious traditions of India, based on the teachings of the Vedas. It emphasizes worship of natural forces such as Surya (the Sun), fire, and the sky through prayers, hymns, and rituals.
Maithil women traditionally wear an unstitched pure cotton or silk saree (dhoti-style attire) during Chhath Puja and other religious rituals. It represents the purity, simplicity, and traditional cultural heritage of Mithila.
Surya (the Sun God) is related to Buddhism and Jainism through art, symbolism, and ancient Indian traditions.
- Buddhism: Surya appears in Buddhist art and sometimes symbolizes light, wisdom, and the removal of darkness.
- Jainism: Surya is represented in Jain temple art and cosmology, reflecting the importance of the Sun in the universe.
Surya Dev is connected to Kumbh Mela through Hindu astrology. The positions of the Sun, Jupiter, and sometimes the Moon help determine the auspicious timing of the festival. Devotees take a holy bath during these periods, believing it brings spiritual purification and blessings.