Chhath Puja, a significant Indian festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and his consort, Chhathi Maiya, is celebrated primarily in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. This ancient festival is marked by a series of rituals that express gratitude to the sun for sustaining life on Earth. The celebration has transcended regional boundaries and found its place in the lives of the Indian diaspora in various parts of the world, including the USA and Mauritius.
Let's explore the rituals, customs and traditions associated with Chhath Puja within and outside India.
In Bihar, Chhath Puja is celebrated with immense fervor and devotion. The festival spans four days and begins with Nahay Khay, where devotees cleanse themselves by taking a holy dip in rivers or ponds and prepare offerings of vegetarian dishes. The second day, Kharna, involves fasting until sunset and preparing a special meal of kheer (rice pudding) and Thekua (sweet fried cookies) that is offered to the deities.
On the third day, known as Chhath, devotees gather at riverbanks during the evening to offer prayers, singing traditional folk songs such as "Hey Surya Devta." This ritual is accompanied by the Usha Arghya on the fourth day, where offerings are made at sunrise.
The sight of families dressed in colorful traditional attire, holding baskets filled with offerings, creates a heavenly atmosphere along the riverbanks of Bihar.
In Jharkhand, the celebration of Chhath Puja mirrors that of Bihar, yet local customs add a distinct flavor to the festival. Jharkhandis emphasize the importance of cleanliness, with families often cleaning their surroundings before the rituals commence. The rituals here are also a way to strengthen community bonds, as neighbors come together to assist each other in preparations.
In many rural areas, the immersion of the Chhath Maiya idol in rivers holds particular significance. Local songs and folk dances are integral to the celebrations, with specific tunes resonating through the festive air, reflecting the regional dialects and cultural nuances. Jharkhandis also prepare unique delicacies, such as dal-puri and chura, which complement the traditional offerings.
Uttar Pradesh's celebration of Chhath Puja is infused with regional variations and influences. The festival is widely celebrated in cities like Varanasi and Lucknow. Here, the rituals are similar, yet the offerings may include bhang (a type of leafy green) and seasonal fruits that are specific to the region. The festivities often begin with a ceremonial bath in the Ganges.
The folk songs sung during Chhath Puja in Uttar Pradesh are often more lyrical, blending classical melodies with local rhythms. In cities, the celebration may also involve community gatherings, where people come together to sing and dance, fostering a sense of unity among participants.
The celebration of Chhath Puja has also gained prominence among the Indian diaspora, especially in countries like the USA and Mauritius. In the United States, the festival is primarily celebrated in areas with significant North Indian populations, such as New York, New Jersey, and California. The rituals remain largely intact, with devotees setting up temporary ghats (riverbanks) near local lakes or parks, where they perform prayers and rituals reminiscent of their homeland.
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In Mauritius, where a significant number of people trace their roots to Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja has become a key cultural event. The Mauritian celebration includes vibrant processions and music that resonate with traditional Indian songs. The local population often joins in, showcasing the festival's ability to transcend cultural barriers and unite people across different backgrounds.
From the riverbanks of Bihar to the serene lakes in the USA and the spirited gatherings in Mauritius, Chhath Puja continues to be celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.
