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In Chhath Puja, bhat (rice) is traditionally prepared on the first day, known as Nahay-Khay.
- Is it compulsory? Rice is a traditional part of Nahay-Khay, but customs may vary between families and regions.
- Why is it prepared? Rice symbolizes simplicity, purity, and nourishment. It is eaten with traditionally prepared vegetarian dishes after ritual bathing and purification.
- Religious significance: Nahay-Khay marks the beginning of Chhath Puja, when devotees follow strict rules of cleanliness and prepare themselves for the upcoming rituals.
Chhath Puja is celebrated on the Shashthi (sixth day) of Kartik Shukla Paksha because of its traditional religious significance.
- Religious belief: Devotees worship Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya for health, prosperity, and the well-being of their families.
- Traditional significance: Chhathi Maiya is associated with the protection of children and fertility in popular Hindu traditions.
- Seasonal significance: Kartik falls after the monsoon, and the festival reflects gratitude to nature and the Sun for sustaining life.
- Cultural tradition: The observance on Shashthi has been preserved through generations as part of the Chhath tradition.
Sun festivals such as Chhath Puja are especially popular in the Terai regions of Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal because of their deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions.
- Agricultural significance: People depend on sunlight for agriculture and express gratitude to the Sun for crops and prosperity.
- River worship: The Terai region has many rivers and ponds, providing suitable places for offering Arghya to the setting and rising Sun.
- Cultural heritage: Sun worship has been passed down through generations in these regions.
- Religious beliefs: Devotees worship Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya for health, fertility, and family well-being.
Chhath Puja is called so because the word “Chhath” comes from the Sanskrit word Shashthi, meaning the sixth day of the lunar fortnight.
The festival is celebrated on Kartik Shukla Shashthi, the sixth day of the bright half of the lunar month of Kartik.
The main worshippers of Chhath Puja are called Parvaitins (or Parvaitin) because they observe the parv (religious festival or sacred observance) with strict discipline, fasting, and devotion.
Chhath Puja is considered one of the biggest festivals of Maithil, Magahi, and Bhojpuri cultures because:
- Ancient tradition: Sun worship has deep historical roots in Bihar and the surrounding regions.
- Cultural identity: The festival has been passed down through generations and is an important part of regional heritage.
- Family and community: People come together to observe rituals, prepare offerings, and worship Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.
- Folk traditions: Traditional songs, Thekua, fasting, and offering Arghya connect the festival with local languages and customs.
- Emotional significance: It expresses gratitude to nature and prayers for children's health, family well-being, and prosperity.