Common questions about IAS, our mission, and how you can be part of this spiritual movement.
Shashthi is called so because she is associated with the sixth day (Shashthi Tithi) in the Hindu lunar calendar. Goddess Shashthi is traditionally worshipped as the protector of children and the deity of childbirth and fertility.
Because farmers and rural life represent the foundation of Indian society. Agriculture provides food and sustains life, so depicting a farmer instead of scriptures symbolizes hard work, self-reliance, and the importance of ordinary people in building the nation.
Maithil women wear an unstiched pure cotton dhoti during Chhath Puja as a symbol of purity, simplicity, and religious discipline. Traditionally, unstiched garments are considered ritually pure for worship, while cotton is valued for its naturalness and comfort during the demanding rituals of Chhath.
In Mithila, the Kosi is filled on the sixth day after childbirth or after Chhath Puja, depending on the family tradition.
It is performed to thank Chhathi Maiya for blessings, express gratitude, and pray for the well-being and prosperity of children and the family.
Chhath is called Chhaith or Shashthi Puja because it is traditionally associated with the sixth day (Shashthi Tithi) of the Hindu lunar calendar. The name Chhath is derived from Shashthi, meaning six, and the festival honours Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya.
Yes, Chhath Puja is primarily dedicated to worshipping the Sun God (Surya Dev) and Chhathi Maiya. ☀️🙏
Why the Sun?
- Source of life: The Sun provides light, warmth, and energy essential for all living beings.
- Health and prosperity: Devotees pray for good health, happiness, and the well-being of their families.
- Gratitude to nature: Offering arghya to the setting and rising Sun expresses gratitude for the Sun's life-sustaining power.
- Scientific significance: Sunlight supports vitamin D production and helps regulate our body clock.