Chhath Puja: Devotees Observe ‘Kharna’ with Daylong Fast Today
Today marks ‘Kharna’ during Chhath Puja, where devotees will fast and prepare traditional offerings for worship.
New Delhi, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : The Chhath Puja festival, celebrated over four days, continues today with the observance of ‘Kharna.’ Devotees in New Delhi and across various regions will fast throughout the day, culminating in evening rituals after a holy bath.
The festival commenced yesterday with the traditional ritual known as ‘Nahay-Khay.’ On this second day, participants prepare offerings, which typically include sweet rice made with jaggery, bread, and other delicacies. After dedicating these to the deities, the fasting individuals consume the offerings and share them with family and friends.
Following this, a rigorous 36-hour ‘Nirjala’ fast begins, which remains in effect during the main worship rituals dedicated to the setting and rising sun.
Chhath Puja symbolizes collective participation from families and communities. With the start of ‘Nahay-Khay,’ traditional folk songs fill the homes as family members come together to gather fruits, bamboo baskets, worship materials, and other offerings.
The first day marks the beginning of a period characterized by spiritual discipline, cleanliness, and devotion, focused on the worship of the Sun God and Goddess Chhathi Maiya. Devotees begin preparing themselves for the challenging rituals ahead.
On the initial day, participants take a sacred bath, don clean clothes, and many immerse themselves in the Ganges or other holy rivers, believing this ritual purifies both body and mind. Careful attention is paid to food preparation, as maintaining ritual purity is deemed essential during Chhath Puja.
Traditional meals on the first day include unboiled rice, chickpea lentils, and pumpkin. The markets in towns and villages bustle with activity as people purchase fruits, vegetables, sweets, and other necessary items for the rituals.
