When it comes to festivals that beautifully blend devotion, discipline, and nature, Chhath Puja Mahaparv stands tall. This ancient Hindu festival is dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, who bless devotees with health, prosperity, and happiness.
Mostly celebrated in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Nepal, Chhath Puja is now recognized across India and even worldwide. The festival begins six days after Diwali, and in 2025, it starts on 25 October (Saturday) with the first ritual known as Nahay Khay.
For millions of devotees, Chhath Puja Mahaparv is not just a religious event — it’s an emotion, a connection to nature, and a reminder of the power of faith.
🌅 What is the Meaning of Chhath Puja Mahaparv?
The word Chhath simply means “six,” as the festival falls on the sixth day of the lunar month of Kartik. But the real meaning goes deeper — it’s about gratitude, purity, and self-control.
During this festival, devotees thank Surya Dev for sustaining life on Earth and seek blessings from Chhathi Maiya for the well-being of their families.
In today’s world, where life runs at full speed and screens rule our attention, Chhath Puja Mahaparv reminds us to pause — to appreciate nature, show gratitude, and find peace in simplicity.
As people in Bihar lovingly say, “Chhath toh shraddha ka parv hai” — Chhath is not just a ritual; it’s pure devotion.
🪔 The Four Days of Chhath Puja Mahaparv
1. Nahay Khay (The Day of Purity) – 25 October 2025
The first day begins with cleaning the home and taking a holy dip in a river or pond. Devotees prepare a simple meal of bottle gourd, lentils, and rice cooked in pure ghee.
This marks the start of purification — cleansing the body and soul. From this day, devotees begin their journey of faith and discipline, keeping complete purity in mind.
2. Kharna (The Day of Fasting)
On the second day, devotees fast for the entire day — even without water. In the evening, they prepare Rasia Kheer (jaggery rice pudding), fruits, and chapatis, and break their fast after sunset.
This offering, called prasad, is shared with family and neighbors. The sweet aroma of kheer fills every home — symbolizing that faith is as sweet as devotion itself.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering to the Setting Sun)
This is the most spiritual and visually stunning part of Chhath Puja Mahaparv. Devotees, dressed in traditional clothes, gather at ghats carrying bamboo baskets filled with fruits, sugarcane, and Thekua (a homemade sweet).
As the sun sets, they offer arghya (water and prayers) to Surya Dev, thanking him for sustaining life. The sight is breathtaking — diyas floating on the river, women singing traditional Chhath songs, and the entire atmosphere glowing with devotion.
Even for those not fasting, witnessing this ritual feels magical and deeply emotional.
4. Usha Arghya (Morning Offering to the Rising Sun)
On the final day, devotees return to the ghats before sunrise to offer prayers to the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and hope.
As the first light touches the water, people fold their hands, close their eyes, and whisper prayers for peace, prosperity, and happiness.
After this, they end their fast and share prasad with loved ones — spreading joy and blessings all around.
🌞 The Stories Behind Chhath Puja Mahaparv
Chhath Puja is one of the oldest festivals in India, with mentions even in the Rigveda. One legend says Karna, the son of Surya Dev, was the first to perform this puja with great devotion.
Another story connects it with Chhathi Maiya, who is believed to bless children and protect families. It’s also said that Draupadi and the Pandavas observed Chhath Puja to overcome difficulties and regain peace in their lives.
These stories show that Chhath Puja Mahaparv is not just about rituals — it’s about trust, gratitude, and the deep connection between humans and the divine.
🌍 Why Chhath Puja is the Festival of Nature and Togetherness
One of the most special things about Chhath Puja is its eco-friendly and community-driven nature. Every item used — from bamboo baskets to fruits and diyas — is natural and biodegradable.
Before the rituals begin, people clean and decorate ghats, ensuring purity and cleanliness. Families come together, neighbors help each other, and communities unite in faith.
There’s no loud music or fireworks — just peace, folk songs, and pure devotion. It’s a reminder that true celebration doesn’t harm nature — it honors it.
And of course, no Chhath is complete without the warmth of family. Every home echoes with laughter, prayers, and that one familiar line — “Don’t touch that, it’s for Chhath!” 😄
📱 Chhath Puja in Today’s World
In modern times, the way we celebrate may have changed, but the emotion remains the same. People live-stream rituals, share pictures on social media, and even celebrate virtually if they’re away from home.
No matter where you are — from Patna to Pune or even abroad — Chhath Puja Mahaparv connects hearts across distances. It’s proof that traditions can evolve with time while keeping their soul intact.
🙏 Conclusion: Chhath Puja Mahaparv – More Than Just a Festival
Chhath Puja Mahaparv is not just a festival of worship — it’s a celebration of faith, family, and nature. It teaches us the values of patience, gratitude, and simplicity in an increasingly fast world.
It’s a reminder that true happiness lies not in material things but in moments of connection — standing by the river, offering prayers to the sun, and feeling thankful for life itself.
Whether you’ve grown up celebrating it or are witnessing it for the first time, Chhath Puja will touch your heart deeply — just like the first rays of the rising sun that fill everything with warmth and hope. 🌅