Chhat Puja is a sacred festival in honor of Sun Goda symbol of life, wisdom and energy. Unique among Hindu festivals, it celebrates both sunrise and sunset, reflecting a deep connection with nature. Devotees seek blessings of family health and longevity from the Sun and his consort Usha while worshiping Sneeze Mayabelieved to bestow well-being on children
The festival is observed at sunrise and sunset, allowing pilgrims to absorb the sun’s nourishing rays, which are essential for the body to synthesize vitamin D and calcium. Rituals during Chhath Puja include fasting, praying to the sun, bathing in holy water and meditation, all of which help promote deep spiritual connection. One of traditional offerings during this time, thekua is made – delicious flour cakes fried in ghee, symbolizing nature’s bounty.
Muhurat for Chat Puja 2024
In 2024, the auspicious times for Chhath Puja are as follows:
Day 1: Let’s eat
Date: November 5, Tuesday
Timings: From sunrise at 6:36 AM to sunset at 5:33 PM
Day 2: Kharna
Date: November 6, Wednesday
Timings: From 6:37 am to 5:32 pm
Day 3: Sandia Argia
Date: November 7, Thursday
Timings: From sunrise at 6:38 AM to sunset at 5:32 PM
Day 4: Usha Argya
Date: Friday, November 8
Timings: From 6:38 am to sunset at 5:31 pm
Tips for Chat celebration Pooja
1- Repeat the ten names of Surya: While performing the Puja, recite the other ten names of the Sun God: Aditya, Arka, Bhau, Savitr, Pushan, Ravi, Marthanda, Mitra, Bhaskara and Prabhakara. This adds spiritual meaning to your prayers.
2- Donate yellow/orange clothes: As a goodwill gesture, consider donating yellow or orange clothes to the needy through NGOs or religious organizations. This act of charity embodies the spirit of sharing and community.
3- Offer rice or kheer: Donating rice or kheer (sweet rice pudding) to religious places or persons in need is a meaningful way to celebrate Chhat Puja. This practice not only spreads joy, but also reinforces the importance of giving back to the community.
[Authored by: Prashant Kapoor, Founder, AstroKapoor, a leading Vedic Astrology Platform of the nation. He is also recognized as the First Medical Astrologer in the World.]
