Chhath puja is also termed as Chhat, Chhat Parv, Data Chhath, Chhathi, Dala Puja and Surya Sashti. This puja is done to appease Lord Sun and his spouse Chhati Maiya or Usha. The main purpose of the puja is to convey the gratitude for maintaining healthy life on the Earth. This is the only Vedic festival celebrated and is very popular in India and Nepal.

Chhath puja is done over a period of four days and this year this will be done from 24th Oct to 27th Oct.

The Legend of the Chhath Puja

As per the ancient legends, Chhath Puja was initiated during the time of Mahabharata. Draupadi used to worship Lord Surya during the Surya Sashti which empowered her in a great way. It is said that her powers helped the Pandavas regain their kingdom. Karna was also said to follow the rules and worshipped Lord Surya that gained him immense power.

1st Day of Chhath Puja: Nahai Khai

This day is dedicated to bathing and eating. The devotees visit a holy water body on the cathurti tithi and pray Lord Surya in order to remove their sins. After that, water is brought to home which is used to cook food and offered to Lord Surya.

2nd Day: Kharna

The devotees observe a fast of 12 hours which is broken after performing puja followed by distributing prasada to the people.

3rd day: Sandhya Argha

Food is prepared that is offered to Lord Surya in the evening after the sunset.

4th Day: Suryodaya Argha

This is the last day of the puja and is done before the sunlight hits the earth. Devotees visit the bank of a river and wait for the sunrise. They offer water to the rising sun.

After rigorous fasting during the four days of Chhath, devotees end the fast with ginger and sugar.

Benefits of Performing Chhath Puja

Chhath puja offers the following benefits:

· Long life and prosperity.

· Wealth and happiness become your companion after performing the puja.

· People suffering from ailments of eyes get cured.