Chhath Pooja 2023: Date and Timings

Since ancient times, people have worshipped the Sun as a deity in different parts of the world. But for the Sun, nothing would exist on earth. As the Sun gives life and energy, it is no wonder that human beings regard the Sun as a deity. Chhath Pooja in India is a Hindu festival that honors the Sun God. It is celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh over 4 days. It occurs in the month of Kartik (October-November). Devotees take a bath in holy rivers, observe fast, and offer prayers to the Sun God. As per Vedic astrology, Chhath Pooja is a very auspicious time to appease the Sun God and invoke his blessings.

Chhath Pooja 2023: Date and Timings

The festival is also known as Mahaparva Chhath. In 2023, it begins on November 17 and ends on November 20. On the first day, or Chaturthi Tithi, the ritual of ‘Nahai Khay’ is observed, followed by Kharna on the second day, which is on Panchami Tithi. On the last day of Chhath, Saptami Tithi, the Usha Arghya ceremony takes place in the morning. This marks the end of the festivities.

Significance and Rituals of Chhath Pooja

On the first day of Chhath Pooja 2023 (Nahay Khay), people take a dip in a nearby river or lake. They also make traditional food items like kheer and roti. This ritual helps purify their mind, body, and soul. On the second day of Chhath Pooja, or Kharna, devotees observe a strict fast. They break the fast after sunset. They also offer prayers and make traditional food items like kheer, puris, etc. They offer these to the Sun god as Prasad and then consume them. This ritual is performed to fulfill wishes and attract prosperity and good luck. The third day, or Sandhya Arghya, is the most important day of the festival. People offer prayers to the setting sun and offer fruits, flowers, and diyas (lamps). People make the offerings in a bamboo basket filled with fruits, sweets, etc. This ritual is for happiness, success, and good health. On the last day, or Usha Arghya, devotees worship the rising Sun. With this ritual, the festival ends. Devotees break the fast after offering prayers. This ritual is for peace and harmony in the family. In the evening, people gather near a water body and offer Arghya to the setting sun. They stand in the water and offer water and milk to the Sun God. The fourth and final day of Chhath Pooja is called Paran, when devotees break their fast by consuming Prasad and seeking blessings from elders. Worshipping the Sun God during Chhath Pooja can bestow good health, wealth, and prosperity. The festival reminds us of the important role played by the Sun in sustaining life on earth. It also celebrates nature’s bounty. Fasting Tips for Chhath Pooja

• Get up early as one can get more spiritual benefits in the early morning hours. After your ablutions, meditate to invoke divine blessings.
• Do not consume grains during the vrat/fast. Have light, sattvic meals to balance your energies. Eat more fruits and vegetables.
• Drink sufficient water throughout the Chhath Pooja. Also, drink coconut water or fruit juices for energy. Avoid tea, coffee, etc., as they can cause dehydration. Consume water before sunset, as the main fast begins after this.
• Offer prayers and do the necessary rituals. Recite mantras and worship Surya and Chhathi Maiya. This boosts the spiritual connection and bestows blessings.
• Do charitable acts. Donate clothes, food, or money to the needy. This boosts your good karma and brings prosperity.
• Maintain clean surroundings to attract positive vibrations.
• Lastly, take part in the evening Arghya ritual by offering prayers to the setting sun. Gather at a riverbank or water body to perform the ritual. Complete the fast with morning Arghya at sunrise.

Spiritual Benefits of Fasting Fasting has many spiritual benefits.

• Fasting purifies the body and mind. During the fast, the body eliminates toxins making possible inner cleanliness and freshness. It also boosts mental clarity, which helps the person to focus more on spiritual activities.
• Fasting boosts spiritual awareness. People experience a heightened sense of spiritual consciousness. This enables them to connect with God more easily. They will gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the universe.
• Fasting is good for self-discipline and self-control. Avoiding food and water for many hours helps one to control one’s urges and impulses. This will stand one in good stead in other areas of life, too.
• Fasting can attract blessings and good fortune. By observing fast and worshipping the Sun God, you can attract positive energy and good luck.