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The Sun is considered a god in Hinduism because it is the source of life, light, energy, and cosmic order. In the Vedas, Surya is revered as a divine power that sustains all living beings, dispels darkness, symbolizes knowledge and truth, and connects humanity with the universal divine.
The rituals of Chhath Puja are rigorous because they symbolize purity, discipline, devotion, gratitude to Surya (the Sun God), and self-control. Fasting, cleanliness, and offering Arghya to the setting and rising Sun express respect for nature, the source of life, and the fulfilment of prayers for health, prosperity, and family well-being.
Surya is worshipped especially during Chhath Puja twice a year—in the Chaitra month (March–April) and Kartik month (October–November).
- Religious significance: Devotees express gratitude to Surya for sustaining life and pray for health, prosperity, and family well-being.
- Seasonal significance: These periods coincide with seasonal transitions, traditionally considered important times for purification, discipline, and prayer.
- Spiritual significance: Offering Arghya to both the setting and rising Sun symbolizes gratitude, humility, and the continuity of life.
In Chhath Puja, Surya is worshipped first at sunset to express gratitude, humility, and respect for the Sun throughout its entire journey.
- Gratitude: Devotees thank the setting Sun for sustaining life.
- Equality: Worshipping the setting Sun symbolizes respect for both rising and declining phases of life.
- Spiritual significance: It teaches acceptance of change, impermanence, and the cycle of life.
- Tradition: Offering Arghya to the setting Sun is an essential ritual of Chhath Puja, followed by worship at sunrise.
In Chhath Puja, the festival concludes by worshipping the rising Sun to symbolize new beginnings, hope, renewal, and the continuity of life.
- Renewal: The rising Sun represents fresh energy and new opportunities.
- Gratitude: Devotees thank Surya for sustaining life and pray for health, prosperity, and family well-being.
- Spiritual significance: It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the renewal of spiritual energy.
- Completion: Offering Arghya to the rising Sun completes the main worship ritual and the 36-hour fast is traditionally broken afterward.
In Chhath Puja, Thekua is an essential traditional offering (Prasad) because it symbolizes purity, devotion, cultural heritage, and gratitude to Surya Dev.
- Religious significance: It is traditionally prepared as a sacred offering to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.
- Purity: Thekua is prepared with great cleanliness and devotion, reflecting the discipline of Chhath Puja.
- Cultural significance: It represents the longstanding traditions and identity of the Chhath festival.
- Practical significance: Made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, it is a nourishing food that can be stored for several days.