The Chhath festival, which begins on the Shashti Tithi of Kartik month signifies the deep faith of Hindus. Lord Surya (God of the Sun) is worshipped on this festival. This festival’s rituals, which are celebrated with great pomp in the states of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, are considered very difficult to follow. There are many beliefs associated with this sacred festival, which many people are not even aware of. Both men and women celebrate this festival with the utmost dedication. The festival is celebrated for four days.
Here is the puja vidhi that one must follow during the sacred festival:
One must take a sacred piece of cloth and spread it over the holy area or at the puja place. Place the idols of Lord Ganesha and Lord Surya on the red cloth. One must start with the puja process; put roli (vermillion) on Lord Ganesha and Lord Surya’s forehead. Along with roli, one should also put rice on the forehead. Make sure the pieces of rice aren’t broken. Lit incense sticks and wave gently in front of the idols. Light the ghee Deepak in front of the idols and offer Prasad including fruits to Lord Ganesha and Lord Surya. Take Chandan (sandalwood) in your mouth and keep it until the sun rises. After taking the sandal in your mouth you can either stand still or sit till the sun rises. If possible, visit a nearby Sun temple and seek blessings from Lord Surya. After sunrise, perform the same puja. Offer holy water to the rising sun. In the end, distribute the khajur (dates) among the family members and friends.
Chhath Puja date and muhurat
Chhath Puja Saturday: November 2, 2019
Kasuroday Time Chhath Puja Day – 06:34 am Suryastha time
Chhath Puja day – 05:37 pm
mashti date start – November 2, 2019, at 12:51 am
Bazeshthi date ends – November 3, 2019, at 1:31 am