Source::Rss
The Chhath festival, renowned for its significance in the Terai-Madhesh and Mithilanchal regions, holds a special connection with agricultural produce. Celebrated with fervor, devotees offer various local agricultural products like coconut, tapanimbu, apple, sugarcane, radish, turmeric weed, ginger, and sweet potatoes as Prasad. However, garlic, onion, millet, and lentils are prohibited during this sacred celebration.
Expanding beyond its traditional roots, Chhath is gaining popularity in the Kathmandu Valley and other hilly and Himalayan areas. The festival spans four days, beginning with 'Arava-Arabine,' where devotees observe purity by bathing, avoiding certain foods, and initiating a fast with holy food. The second day, known as Kharna, involves fasting throughout the day, decorating the ground with a mixture of Araba rice flour and cow dung, and preparing offerings for Chathi Mata.
The festival's third day, Shashti Tithi, witnesses devotees taking Thakuwa, Bhuswa, Puri Kachwaniya, and fruits as Prasad materials to ponds, rivers, and ghats. Alongside this, various local agricultural products are offered, symbolizing a form of agricultural worship. This act of presenting agricultural produce expresses gratitude and seeks blessings for successful agricultural production.
At the pond and Sarobar ghat, devotees light lamps, incense, and worship the Sun God and Chhathi Mata, staying awake through the night. The atmosphere is filled with cultural performances and songs dedicated to Chhathimata Puja. The concluding day, known as Paran, marks the formal completion of Chhath after devotees take a bath in the reservoir and offer prayers to the rising sun.
Astrologer Rakesh Sah highlights the festival's significance in promoting health by harnessing the beneficial rays of the sun, potentially warding off diseases like leprosy. Dr. Vinod Sah, a scholar, traces the origins of Chhathi Puja to ancient times in present-day Patna, India, during the reign of Magadha kings between 1300 and 1500 BC.
Several legends surround the festival's inception, such as Sati Anusuya's fasting on Shashti and the transformation of the word 'Shashthi' into 'Chhathi' or 'Chhath' during the Dwapara Yuga. While primarily a celebration by women, men play a crucial supportive role, assisting with Sarasman and Prasad materials.
Chhath celebrated twice a year as Chaiti Chhath in summer and Kartik Chhath in winter, is a tradition that unites all castes and communities. Dr. Rajendra Bimal emphasizes its inclusive nature, bringing people together at ponds, rivers, and reservoirs to worship the sun god. The festival's widespread appeal has even led to its recognition as a national celebration, uniting communities beyond its traditional boundaries.
Also Read
