Chhath Puja, one of the most sacred and eco-conscious Hindu festivals, is a vibrant celebration dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev (Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. Celebrated mainly in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh and parts of Nepal, this festival is a symbol of gratitude, piety and devotion.
1. Date and key time
In 2025, Chhath Puja is celebrated for four days, from Saturday, October 25 to Tuesday, October 28.
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The main tithi (Shashthi Tithi) starts at 06:04 am on October 27 and ends at 07:59 am on October 28.
Normal sunrise and sunset times (estimated for many parts of North India)
Sunrise ~ 6:28 am Day 1 (25 October)
Sunset ~ 5:40 pm on October 27
2. Importance and meaning
Chhath Puja is dedicated to Surya Dev (Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya (goddess associated with protection, health and children).
It symbolizes gratitude towards the Sun – the ultimate source of life, energy and renewal.
The rituals are rooted in purity, self-discipline and family well-being: devotees often fast, perform rigorous penances and offer collective prayers for well-being, progeny and prosperity.
Geographically, while it is particularly widespread in states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and parts of Nepal, its cultural resonance has spread to many other parts of India as well.
3. 4-Day Celebration Guide: What Happens Each Day
Here’s a practical guide to each of the four days: what to do, what to prepare for, and what to feel.
Day 1: Nahay Khay (25 October)
Early in the morning, devotees take a holy bath in a river, pond or clean water body, thereby purifying both body and mind.
After bathing, simple vegetarian food is prepared and eaten. Traditional items include rice, gourd, chana dal etc., which are usually cooked in clean pots without onion-garlic.
Cleaning, decoration, shopping of fruits, sugarcane, earthen lamps and preparations for the next days are often seen at homes and ghats (river banks).
Day 2: Kharna (26 October)
Devotees observe a one-day fast, which often includes water or sometimes a more stringent water-free fast depending on local custom.
At sunset, a special offering (prasad) is made – usually jaggery (gur) rice pudding (kheer), puris and seasonal fruits. After offering Arghya to Chhathi Maiya and Surya, devotees eat Prasad to break part of the fast (although the main fast may continue).
The mood is one of inner meditation, preparation for the next day’s main rituals.
Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (27 October – Evening)
It is the most visually iconic day: in the evening, near sunset, devotees gather on river banks or water bodies. Many people stand in shallow water carrying baskets (“soup”) of offerings: fruits, sugarcane, thekua (a sweet wheat/dates/thick cookie), incense, etc.
They offer “arghyaOffering water to the setting Sun (Sun God). The atmosphere is filled with devotional songs, lanterns, lamps, community chanting.
Fasting becomes intense; The focus is on devotion, gratitude and connection with nature (sun, water, earth).
Day 4: Usha Arghya and Paran (28 October – early morning)
Before sunrise, devotees once again gather at the water’s edge to offer morning arghya to the rising sun (Usha Arghya).
After this the long fast is concluded (Parana) with Prasad, fruits, water. The community celebration ends with sharing and gratitude.
The festival ends with devotion, community bonding and renewal of hope for the coming year.
4. Practical Tips and Points to Consider
Location matters: Due to the importance of water + sun in the rituals many people dedicate themselves at rivers, ponds or specially arranged ghats. If you’re running away from a major river, find a clean, safe water body or even a decorated pool/bank that might work in an urban setting.
Dress and decorations: traditionally polite, clean attire; Women often wear bright sarees or salwar-kameez, men may wear dhoti/kurta. Emphasis has been laid on purity and devotion.
Naivedya and Prasad: Typical offerings include sugarcane stalks, fruits (especially local seasonal ones), thekua biscuits, earthen lamps, bamboo baskets (soup). The food is generally satvik (without onion/garlic) and freshly cooked.
Sharp Discipline: The fast is rigorous – especially on the third and fourth days. If you plan to follow through, be prepared. People with health related problems should seek guidance.
Environmental Awareness: Because water bodies and the sun are used in the rituals, many appeals emphasize the use of eco-friendly materials: no plastic plates, no non-biodegradable offerings, no chemical-colored lamps. Participation in cleaning the ghats and environmental protection is part of the spirit.
Travel & Logistics: Since many people head home for the festival (especially in Bihar, UP), book travel and accommodation early. Expect crowds, especially near ghats and river banks.
Community and Inclusion: Even if you are not observing the entire fast, you can participate by visiting a local Chhath Sabha, joining in the devotional songs, offering prasad or helping in the preparation of the ghats.
5. Why this festival matters today
In modern times, among the many rapidly growing festivals, Chhath Puja stands out for its simplicity, nature-orientation and community engagement. This reminds us:
- Our dependence on the sun and natural rhythms.
- Importance of gratitude and self-discipline in spiritual life.
- The power of collective devotion and family involvement.
- Linking tradition with environmental consciousness (water purity, no pollution on ghats).