Chhath Puja Festival Date 2024

Chaiti Chhath Puja 2024 Date, Time, History and Significance

Chhath Puja, a momentous Hindu celebration, reverberates with fervor and unwavering reverence in the northern domains of India, most notably in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. This quadrennial festivity carries a profound sense of devotion as it pays homage to the majestic Sun God, known as Surya Devta. Occurring on the sixth day following Diwali, during the sacred month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar, Chhath Puja serves as a poignant occasion for devotees to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the Sun God for bestowing sustenance upon Earth and to implore for their own prosperity and well-being.

Chhath Puja 2024 Date in India: 7th November, Thursday

Chhath Puja 2024 Overview

Chhath Puja 2024 India Calendar

Celebrate Chhath Puja 2024 with this special India Calendar; featuring a unique design for each month and special cultural highlights.

When is Chhath Puja 2024?

Chhath Puja 2024 Time in Bihar

Thursday, November 7, 2024, marks the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja. On this special day, devotees will witness the glorious sunrise at precisely 06:12 AM, followed by the breathtaking sunset at 05:59 PM. The Shashthi Tithi, which signifies the sixth day of the lunar month, commences at 12:41 AM on Nov 07, 2024, and concludes at 12:34 AM on Nov 08, 2024.

Historical and Mythological Significance

Chhath Puja has its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures and mythology. It is believed that Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, performed this ritual to seek the blessings of the Sun God for the well-being of her family. The festival also finds mention in the Rigveda, one of the oldest texts in Hinduism. According to mythology, Lord Rama and his wife Sita observed Chhath Puja after returning to Ayodhya from their exile.

Rituals and Traditions of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja involves a series of rituals that are meticulously followed by devotees. The preparations for the festival start well in advance, with devotees observing a strict vegetarian diet and maintaining purity in their thoughts and actions. The first day of Chhath Puja is known as Nahay Khay, where devotees take a holy bath in rivers or other water bodies before preparing prasad (offerings) for the Sun God.

The second day is called Kharna, during which devotees observe a fast throughout the day. In the evening, they break their fast after offering kheer (sweet rice pudding) and fruits to the Sun God. The third day, known as Sandhya Arghya, is the most important day of Chhath Puja. Devotees gather at the banks of rivers or ponds before sunrise and offer prayers to the rising sun. They perform various rituals, including standing in water for long durations, offering prayers, and singing devotional songs.

The final day of Chhath Puja is called Usha Arghya, which takes place on the following morning. Devotees again gather at the riverbanks to offer prayers to the setting sun. The festival concludes with the breaking of the fast by consuming prasad and distributing it among family and friends.

Significance and Benefits of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja holds immense significance for devotees, both spiritually and scientifically. The rituals performed during this festival are believed to purify the mind, body, and soul. The practice of standing in water during sunrise and sunset is said to have therapeutic benefits, as it helps in absorbing Vitamin D from the early morning and evening sun rays.

Chhath Puja is also considered a way to express gratitude towards nature and the environment. The festival promotes environmental conservation by encouraging devotees to clean the riverbanks and maintain cleanliness during the rituals. It is a time when people come together as a community, irrespective of caste, creed, or social status, to celebrate and strengthen their bond with nature.

Celebrations and Festivities of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is not just a religious festival but also a time for joyous celebrations. The atmosphere during this period is filled with devotion, music, and dance. Devotees dress in traditional attire and decorate their homes with flowers and colorful rangolis (artistic designs made with colored powders). The sound of devotional songs and hymns fills the air as people come together to sing and dance in praise of the Sun God.

The festival also witnesses the participation of various cultural groups and organizations, who organize processions and cultural programs to showcase the rich heritage and traditions associated with Chhath Puja. The grandeur of the celebrations attracts tourists from all over the world, who come to witness this unique festival and experience the vibrant culture of India.