The term chhath means 'sixth' in languages, such as Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Nepali. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word Sashsthi, which indicates the sixth day. As per the Hindu calendar, Chhath Puja festivities begin on Chaturthi Tithi and End on Saptami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Kartik.
Generally observed four days after Diwali, Chhath Puja is an important festival in Bihar, Jharkhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Chhath Puja 2023 Date
The grand festival of worshipping Lord Surya or Sun God, is slated to begin on Friday, November 17. The observance of this vrat begins with the rituals of Nahay Khay on Chaturthi Thithi. After a three-day fast of following strict rules and self-discipline, on the fourth day, during the Arunodaya time or sunrise, devotees offer Arghya to the Sun God and end the fast.
Kartik Shashthi will start at 9:53 AM on November 18 and will last until 7:50 AM on November 19. On the same day, the sunset will occur at 5:22 PM. during which Arghya will be offered to the setting sun. The sunrise on November 20 is expected at 6:30 AM, which indicates the culmination of the festivity.
Chhath Puja Significance
Chhath Puja is dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. During this festive period, women observe strict fast seeking blessings for their children and family members. The festival also holds immense spiritual and cultural significance in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
According to a Maharabharat legend, sage Dhaumya once advised Draupadi to observe the fast to please Lord Surya and explained the rituals. It’s believed that Draupadi observed the fast and performed the rituals of Chhath Puja to help the Pandavas conquer their lost kingdom.
In addition, it is believed that in the Kartik month, Lord Ram and Goddess Sita observed fasts and worshipped Lord Surya during their coronation after 14 years of exile.
According to mythological tales, Chhathi Maiya is worshipped during this festival. She is considered the sister of Lord Surya and the daughter of Lord Brahma. Devotees observe fast and worship Chhathi Maiya as she is believed to be the source of life on earth like the Sun God.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
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