Why do we Celebrate Chhath Puja 2023, Scientific and Important Facts
Why do we Celebrate Chhath Puja 2023?
Chhath Puja, a deeply rooted and vibrant festival celebrated predominantly in the North Indian state of Bihar, as well as in certain regions of Uttar Pradesh and Nepal, holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. Taking place on the sixth day of the Hindu calendar month of Kartika, this four-day festival is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and his consort, Usha. Let’s delve into the rich history, scientific significance, and intricate rituals that make Chhath Puja a revered celebration.
Historical and Religious Importance of Chhath Puja 2023
Chhath Puja finds its roots in Hindu epics, particularly Ramayana and Mahabharata. According to legend, Lord Rama and Sita observed a fast in honor of the Sun God upon their return to Ayodhya. Additionally, the character Karna, born to the Sun God and Kunti in Mahabharata, is said to have regularly performed this ritual by offering prayers while standing in the water. These narratives contribute to the cultural tapestry of Chhath Puja.
Also Read: Chhath Puja Essay in English And Hindi for Students
What is Chhath Puja Story?
People observe Chhath for various reasons. Some believe it originated from ancient times when humans worshiped nature. Legend has it that after Lord Ram and Goddess Sita returned to Ayodhya, they observed a fast and performed a ceremony for the Sun god. Similarly, during the Pandavas’ exile in the Mahabharata, Draupadi sought help from sage Dhaumya. He suggested she fast and pray to the Sun, and her prayers were answered. In the same epic, Karna organized a grand ceremony to honor Surya, his father.
Chhath, a traditional Hindu festival, holds significance in the worship of the Sun god. It is rooted in ancient practices and stories, reflecting a deep connection between humans and nature. The observance of fasting and rituals during Chhath is believed to bring blessings and fulfill wishes, as exemplified by the stories of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Draupadi, and Karna. This festival highlights the cultural and spiritual richness of Hindu traditions, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and devotion to natural elements.
Scientific Significance of Chhath Puja 2023
Beyond its historical and religious roots, Chhath Puja also holds scientific importance. The festival involves taking dips in water and exposing the body to the sun, promoting increased solar bioelectricity flow, which, in turn, enhances overall bodily functions. The rituals are believed to kill harmful bacteria, detoxify the body, and prepare it for the upcoming winter season.
Also Read: Chhath Puja 2023
Rituals of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is a meticulously observed festival spanning four days, each with its specific rituals.
1. Nahay Khay (Day 1): Devotees take a holy dip in rivers like Kosi, Ganga, and Karnali, bringing home the sacred water for ritual offerings.
2. Lohanda or Kharna (Day 2): Devotees fast the entire day, breaking it after sunset with offerings like kheer, bananas, and rice. A 36-hour waterless fast follows the consumption of prasad.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Day 3): Devotees observe another day of fasting, preparing puja offerings like thekua, coconut, bananas, and fruits. Evening rituals take place at the banks of rivers or ponds, offering ‘araghya’ to the setting sun.
4. Bihaniya Arghya (Day 4): The final day involves offering prayers and prasad to the rising sun, breaking the fast with local offerings like ginger and sugar.
Chhath Puja 2023 Important Dates
Mark your calendars for the significant dates of Chhath Puja 2023, as devotees embark on a four-day celebration, engaging in rituals and offerings to honor the Sun God and seek blessings for the well-being of their families.
| Festival | Date |
|---|---|
| Nahay Khay | November 17, 2023 |
| Kharna | November 18, 2023 |
| Sandhya Arghya | November 19, 2023 |
| Usha Arghya | November 20, 2023 |
Chhath Puja 2023 Important Facts
1. Chhath Puja is the only Vedic festival celebrated in India.
2. Characters from both Ramayana and Mahabharata are associated with the festival.
3. Rituals of Chhath Puja have scientific reasons, contributing to a rigorous detoxification process.
4. The festival aids in the absorption of Calcium and Vitamin D, particularly beneficial for women.
5. Chhath Puja enhances the body’s immunity and provides mental calmness to devotees.
6. It goes beyond being just a festival; Chhath Puja is a harmonious blend of history, spirituality, and science.
7. Symbolizes deep reverence for the life-sustaining Sun and its divine energy.
8. Embracing Chhath Puja means embracing a holistic celebration that contributes to both physical and spiritual well-being.
Chhath Puja 2023 Important Facts FAQs
Q1. Why is Chhath Puja celebrated?
Ans. Chhath Puja is celebrated to honor the Sun God and seek blessings for the well-being of families. It holds cultural, spiritual, and historical significance.
Q2. What is the scientific importance of Chhath Puja?
Ans. Chhath Puja involves rituals like taking dips in water and exposing the body to the sun, promoting increased solar bioelectricity flow. This detoxifies the body and enhances overall bodily functions.
Q3. What are the key rituals of Chhath Puja?
Ans. The four-day festival includes rituals like Nahay Khay (ritual bathing), Lohanda or Kharna (day-long fasting), Sandhya Arghya (evening offerings to the sun), and Bihaniya Arghya (morning offerings to the rising sun).
Q4. How long does Chhath Puja last?
Ans. Chhath Puja spans four days, with each day dedicated to specific rituals and offerings to honor the Sun God.
Q5. What are the important dates for Chhath Puja 2023?
Ans. Chhath Puja in 2023 will be celebrated on November 17th (Chaturthi), November 18th (Panchami), November 19th (Sasthi), and November 20th (Saptami).
