Chhath Puja 2025: Chhath Puja is one of the most sacred festivals in Hinduism, begins six days after Diwali on the Shashthi Tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha. This year, it will be celebrated from October 25 to October 28. The festival is dedicated to worshipping Chhathi Maiya and the Sun God (Surya Dev). Devotees offer prayers to express gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth and to seek the blessings of Chhathi Maiya for the well-being, health, and prosperity of their family.
Who Is Chhathi Maiya?
Chhathi Maiya, also known as Shashthi Devi, is considered the protector of children. According to religious texts, she is the sister of the Sun God. Devotees stand in water during Chhath Puja rituals, offering prayers to both Chhathi Maiya and Surya Dev to ensure protection and blessings for their family.
Legend has it that Prakriti Devi, the presiding deity of creation, divided herself into six parts. Her sixth part became the supreme mother goddess, Chhathi Maiya, also referred to as the mind-born daughter of Lord Brahma. She is worshipped during Chhath Mahaparv and six days after the birth of a child to bless them with long life, health, and success.
Significance of Worshipping Chhathi Maiya
The worship of Chhathi Maiya is central to Chhath Puja. She symbolizes the power of motherhood and the divine protection of children. By offering prayers, devotees seek her blessings for:
- Health and longevity of children
- Success in family and personal life
- Prosperity and well-being of the household
Chhathi Maiya is also identified with Katyayani, the mother goddess worshipped on the sixth day of Navratri. Her divine grace is believed to protect children, ensure their prosperity, and grant them long life. The Mahabharata and Puranas describe her glory and the benefits of her worship, highlighting why her blessings during Chhath Mahaparv are considered essential.
Chhath Puja 2025: Rituals Involving Chhathi Maiya
- Nahay Khay: Devotees take a holy bath in rivers or water bodies before beginning the puja.
- Kharna: Fasting during the day, followed by prasad offerings in the evening.
- Sandhya Arghya: Evening offerings to the setting sun, accompanied by Chhath songs and lighting of diyas.
- Usha Arghya: Morning offerings to the rising sun on the final day.
- Parana Ritual: The fast is broken after completing Usha Arghya, concluding the four-day festival.
The worship of Chhathi Maiya during these rituals strengthens devotion and ensures that the family receives divine protection, prosperity, and blessings.
Chhathi Maiya is a symbol of maternal power, protection, and longevity. During Chhath Mahaparv, her worship alongside the Sun God not only expresses gratitude for life but also invokes prosperity, health, and success for the family. Observing the rituals with sincerity ensures the blessings of Chhathi Maiya, making the festival of Chhath Puja 2025 spiritually significant and deeply meaningful for devotees.
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