Chhath Puja, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, is set to be celebrated with great fervor in 2024. This ancient ritual, dedicated to the Sun God and his sister Chhathi Maiya, is a testament to the deep-rooted traditions of India. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essence of Chhath Puja, its significance, and what to expect in 2024.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!When is Chhath Puja 2024?
Chhath Puja, a sacred festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya (the Sun God), will be celebrated on 7th November 2024. If you’re wondering about the exact date, mark your calendar for this auspicious occasion. Spanning over four days, the festival involves devotees offering prayers and performing rituals to seek blessings from the Sun God for health, prosperity, and well-being.
The Significance of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is more than just a religious observance; it’s a celebration of life, sustainability, and the power of nature. Here’s why it holds such importance:
- Sun Worship: The festival primarily honors Surya, the Sun God, acknowledging the sun’s role in sustaining life on Earth.
- Thanksgiving: It’s a time to express gratitude for a good harvest, prosperity, and well-being.
- Purification: The rituals are believed to cleanse the body and mind, promoting overall health.
- Environmental Awareness: The festival emphasizes the importance of clean water bodies and environmental conservation.
Chhath Puja 2024: Dates and Timings
Chhath Puja is an important festival observed on the sixth day of the Kartik month, as per the Hindu calendar. Below are the sunrise and sunset timings for the four-day celebration in 2024:
Day 1 – Chaturthi (Nahay Khay)
Date: 5th November 2024
- Sunrise: 06:19 AM
- Sunset: 05:36 PM
Day 2 – Panchami (Lohanda and Kharna)
Date: 6th November 2024
- Sunrise: 06:19 AM
- Sunset: 05:35 PM
Day 3: Shashthi (Chhath Puja, Sandhya Arghya)
Date: 7th November 2024
- Sunrise: 06:20 AM
- Sunset: 05:35 PM
Day 4 – Ashtami (Usha Arghya, Parana Day)
Date: 8th November 2024
- Sunrise: 06:20 AM
- Sunset: 05:34 PM
These timings help devotees perform the rituals of Chhath Puja at the appropriate moments.
How to Celebrate Chhath Puja 2024
- Prepare Traditional Dishes: Cook prasad items like thekua, kheer, and fruits
- Decorate Your Home: Use marigolds, banana leaves, and earthen lamps
- Visit Water Bodies: If possible, participate in the arghya rituals at a nearby river or pond
- Observe Fasting: Follow the fasting guidelines if you’re a devotee
- Spread Awareness: Share the importance of environmental conservation, a key aspect of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja 2024 Around the World
While Chhath Puja originates from Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, it’s now celebrated globally:
- India: Major celebrations in Bihar, Jharkhand, UP, and parts of Nepal
- USA: Growing observances in states with large Indian populations like New Jersey and California
- UK: Significant celebrations in London and Birmingham
- Australia: Emerging festivities in Sydney and Melbourne
Conclusion
Chhath Puja 2024 promises to be a beautiful blend of tradition, spirituality, and environmental consciousness. Whether you’re a devoted participant or a curious observer, this festival offers a unique glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage. Mark your calendars for November 17-20, 2024, and prepare to witness or partake in this awe-inspiring celebration of nature and faith.
