Chhath Puja 2024 Dates & Time: Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya & Bihaniya Arghya Schedule and more

Chhath Puja 2024 Calendar

Chhath Puja, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, honors the divine power of the Sun God, Surya. In 2024, devotees worldwide will observe this auspicious occasion with great fervor. Here's a comprehensive guide to Chhath Puja 2024:

Chhath Puja 2024 Dates and Calendar

1. Nahay Khay (Tuesday, November 5, 2024) The first day, Nahay Khay, marks the beginning of the Chhath Puja rituals. Devotees, especially women, purify themselves by taking a holy dip in rivers, particularly the Ganga. This act symbolises spiritual cleansing, preparing devotees for the fasting period. On this day, those observing Chhath Puja consume only a single meal, initiating their devotion and focus.
2. Kharna (Wednesday, November 6, 2024) The second day, Kharna, involves a strict day-long fast observed without even drinking water, starting from sunrise and ending at sunset. The fast is broken in the evening after offering a traditional meal (prasad) to Lord Surya, typically including rice pudding (kheer) and chapatis. This marks a deep commitment to the Sun God, with the Kharna rituals setting the stage for the primary observance the following day.
3. Sandhya Arghya (Thursday, November 7, 2024) The third day is the main day of Chhath Puja and is marked by the observance of a complete fast without water. Devotees gather at riverbanks or other water bodies to offer the first Arghya (a traditional offering) to the setting sun, which is one of the unique aspects of Chhath Puja. It is the only time when Arghya is dedicated to the setting sun, representing gratitude and reverence. The fasting continues through the night, signifying a deep, unbroken prayer to Lord Surya.
4. Usha Arghya (Friday, November 8, 2024) The final day, known as Usha Arghya, involves offering prayers and Arghya to the rising sun. This ritual, known as Usha Arghya, is performed early in the morning. With this, the 36-hour fast comes to an end, and devotees conclude their Chhath Puja observance. Parana, the ritual of breaking the fast, is done after the morning Arghya, bringing an end to the four-day festival.

Chhath Puja, also known as Surya Shashthi or Dala Chhath, is one of the few Hindu festivals solely dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. It is believed that observing Chhath Puja brings blessings of health, happiness, and prosperity. Many devotees also view this festival as a time to express gratitude for life’s basic necessities and to purify their souls. The unique element of offering Arghya to the setting sun and then to the rising sun is symbolic of life’s cycle, growth, and renewal.

Chhath Puja 2024: Rituals

Each day of Chhath Puja involves specific rituals, symbolising dedication, discipline, and a deep spiritual connection. From the purifying baths to the 36-hour fast without water, each practice is infused with symbolism:

• Nahay Khay: This initial day of cleansing reflects purification of the body and spirit, preparing devotees for the rigorous fasts.
• Kharna: Observing a waterless fast until sunset is a test of commitment, embodying self-discipline and sacrifice.
• Sandhya Arghya: Offering Arghya to the setting sun highlights gratitude for life’s challenges, as much as for its gifts, which help individuals grow.
• Usha Arghya: The final day’s offering to the rising sun signifies hope, new beginnings, and divine blessings.

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