Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya (the Sun God) and his sister Chhathi Maiya, is celebrated with great fervor in North India. This year, the festival falls on November 7, 2024, and spans four days of rituals and devotion. Here’s everything you need to know about Chhath Puja 2024, including its dates, significance, and important timings.
Chhath Puja Calendar 2024
The Chhath Puja celebrations commence with specific rituals over four days. Here’s the complete calendar for this year:
| Day | Date | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Nahay Khay | November 5 | Beginning of festivities; purification rituals. |
| Lohanda and Kharna | November 6 | Observing a fast without water; offering food to the Sun God. |
| Chhath Puja (Sandhya Arghya) | November 7 | Offering Arghya to the setting sun; night-long fast. |
| Usha Arghya (Parana Day) | November 8 | Offering Arghya to the rising sun; breaking the fast. |
Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is deeply rooted in cultural significance and is primarily observed in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of West Bengal. The festival is dedicated to expressing gratitude towards the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth and seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being.
Rituals Involved
- Nahay Khay: The first day involves devotees taking a sacred bath and preparing a meal that typically includes lauki (bottle gourd) and rice.
- Lohanda and Kharna: On this day, devotees observe a nirjala vrat (fast without water) from sunrise to sunset, culminating in a meal offered to the Sun God after sunset.
- Chhath Puja or Sandhya Arghya: Devotees offer Arghya to the Sun at dusk while maintaining their fast throughout the night.
- Usha Arghya or Parana Day: The final day involves offering Arghya to the rising sun and breaking the fast after performing rituals.
Sunrise and Sunset Timings
The timings for sunrise and sunset during Chhath Puja are crucial for performing rituals accurately. According to Drik Panchang, here are the timings for each day:
| Day | Sunrise Time | Sunset Time |
|---|---|---|
| Nahay Khay | 6:36 AM | 5:33 PM |
| Lohanda and Kharna | 6:37 AM | 5:32 PM |
| Chhath Puja | 6:38 AM | 5:32 PM |
| Usha Arghya | 6:38 AM | 5:31 PM |
Conclusion
Chhath Puja is not just a festival but a celebration of life, nature, and familial bonds. As devotees prepare for this auspicious occasion, understanding the significance of each day along with the correct timings is essential for fulfilling their spiritual obligations.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as religious or investment advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with knowledgeable sources or religious leaders for guidance on performing rituals correctly during Chhath Puja.
