Chhath Puja is one of the most ancient and unique festivals celebrated in Varanasi, dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya (Sister Goddess). This four-day festival involves rigorous fasting, holy bathing, and offering prayers to the rising and setting sun at the Ganges ghats.
Key Takeaways
- The Four Days of Chhath
- How Varanasi Celebrates
- Traditional Offerings
The Four Days of Chhath
Chhath Puja spans four days: Nahay Khay (bathing and eating), Lohanda and Kharna (fasting and preparation), Sandhya Arghya (evening offerings), and Usha Arghya (morning offerings). Each day has specific rituals and significance.
How Varanasi Celebrates
The ghats of Varanasi become the center of Chhath celebrations. Devotees, especially women, stand in the water facing the sun with offerings of fruits, thekua (special sweet), and other items in bamboo baskets. The sight of thousands of devotees in the Ganges at dawn is truly mesmerizing.
Sandhya Arghya
The evening offering to the setting sun is a spectacular sight. The entire riverfront is illuminated with diyas and candles, creating a sea of light.
Usha Arghya
The final morning offering to the rising sun marks the conclusion of Chhath. Devotees break their fast after the morning prayers, and prasad is distributed.
Traditional Offerings
Thekua (a sweet made from wheat flour and jaggery), seasonal fruits like sugarcane, bananas, and coconuts are offered to the Sun God. These offerings are placed in bamboo baskets and presented with great devotion while standing in the Ganges.
Quick Tips
Chhath Puja in Varanasi is a four-day sun worship festival with rituals at dawn and dusk. Devotees stand in the Ganges with offerings in bamboo baskets. The evening and morning arghya ceremonies create spectacular sights.
Frequently Asked Questions
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