Embrace the Spirit of Chhath Puja: A Four-Day Festival of Devotion

As we transition from the vibrant celebrations of Diwali to the serene rituals of Chhath Puja, it’s an opportune moment to reflect, rejuvenate, and reconnect with our spiritual selves. Beginning on October 25, 2025, this eminent festival predominantly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh pays homage to Lord Surya and Chhathi Maiya, intertwining nature worship with family devotion.

A Journey Through Purity and Ritual

Day 1 – Nahay-Khaay (October 25)

Chhath Puja kicks off with Nahay-Khaay, a day dedicated to purification. Devotees cleanse their homes and bodies while embracing satvik meals — think chickpea lentils, pumpkin curry, and rice. This preparatory day is essential, establishing a mindset of discipline and devotion for the rituals unfolding over the next few days.

Day 2 – Kharna (October 26)

The festival plunges into its first major fasting day during Kharna. Here, devotees refrain from food and water, sharpening their focus on spiritual endurance. The evening puja is marked by the preparation of prasad, a delicious mix of rice pudding (kheer) and jaggery, symbolizing sweetness in devotion. This day highlights the essence of sacrifice and self-restraint, crucial for the spiritual journey ahead.

Day 3 – Sandhya Arghya (October 27)

As the sun sets, families gather in reverence during Sandhya Arghya, shining a light on community spirit. Dressed in traditional attire, they wade into the water at riverbanks or ghats, offering arghya — a devotional offering of water, milk, fruits, and Thekua, a sweet wheat treat. This magical moment, filled with prayer and song, encapsulates the emotional core of the festival as devotees express gratitude to the setting sun.

Day 4 – Usha Arghya (October 28)

Usha Arghya concludes the festivities with a morning worship of the rising sun. This final ritual is marked by offerings that symbolize new beginnings and renewal — raw milk and prasad — all embodying the devotion and energy accumulated throughout the four-day celebration.

The Heart of Chhath Puja

The beauty of Chhath Puja lies in its communal and spiritual essence. It’s more than just rituals; it’s a reminder of our bond with nature and the cycles of life. The meticulous preparation, family gatherings, and the deep faith involved weave a fabric of community spirit, strengthening relationships and fostering gratitude.

As Chhath Puja approaches, take a moment to reflect on the power of nature and the significance of gratitude in our daily lives. Whether participating in the rituals or observing from afar, the festival encourages us to embrace simplicity, spirituality, and togetherness.

While the noise of everyday life can often drown out these moments, festivals like Chhath Puja serve as poignant reminders to find harmony within ourselves and our communities.

“Original article: https://www.indiatimes.com/trending/chhath-puja-2025-your-complete-guide-to-nahay-khaay-kharna-sandhya-usha-arghya-rituals/articleshow/124776298.html“