Mumbai: Chhath Puja, one of Hinduism’s most arduous and revered fasts, is underway with lakhs across Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and other regions observing this festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. The festival is marked by a 36-hour nirjala vrat and a series of detailed rituals that begin with Nahay Khay and culminate on Saptami with offerings to the rising sun. Each step in this Mahavrat, including today’s Kharna, carries unique importance, as devotees prepare to offer Arghya (offerings) to the Sun tomorrow evening.
Traditionally, mothers undertake the Chhath Puja fast to seek blessings for the long life and well-being of their children. The ritual is also considered highly auspicious for women desiring children, as it is believed to fulfil wishes and bring peace and prosperity to the family. With the Kharna observance today, devotees uphold a day-long fast, breaking it only after performing evening rituals that include offerings of bakhira (a sweet rice porridge) and puri, shared with family members, especially children.
Kharna Rituals and Offerings
On Kharna day, devotees maintain a strict fast throughout the day, only breaking it after sunset with a ceremonial bath followed by a prayer to Chhathi Maiya. The fast is broken with bakhira (a sweet rice porridge) and puri, regarded as Mahaprasad. Following the Kharna ritual, this Prasad is shared with family members.
Preparation of Chhath Prasad
The Prasad for Chhath, including traditional treats like thekua is typically prepared on the morning of the first Arghya day. Preparations begin in advance, with grains cleaned, dried, and ground for use. The Prasad is cooked on a clay stove in brass utensils, preserving the sanctity of the ritual. Only whole, unbroken fruits and flowers are used in the Puja, emphasising purity and cleanliness throughout the celebration. This practice highlights the deep reverence devotees have for Chhath Puja’s traditions and customs.
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Chhath Puja Preparations Checklist
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Grains – cleaned, washed, and dried
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Clay stove and brass utensils
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Whole fruits and flowers
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Thekua and bakhira ingredients
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Dedicated worship space prepared
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Nightly Rest Arrangements During Chhath Puja
On Kharna day, arrangements are made for where those observing the fast will sleep for the next three nights. Although they may carry out tasks around the house during the day, they return to their designated space at night. Women who observe this fast avoid sleeping on beds; instead, they lay down a mat on the ground as part of their observance. This gesture symbolises humility and devotion, reinforcing the spiritual discipline required for Chhath Puja.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and practices associated with Chhath Puja.)
