Chhath Puja is one of the most beautiful and spiritually meaningful festivals celebrated in India. Dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, this traditional festival represents gratitude, devotion, discipline, family happiness and respect for nature.

The festival is especially popular in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and parts of Nepal. Today, Chhath Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Delhi, Mumbai and many other Indian cities, as well as by Indian communities living abroad.

During these four days, devotees gather near rivers, ponds and specially prepared water bodies. They offer prayers to the setting and rising Sun while presenting traditional fruits and homemade offerings.

Chhath Puja 2026: Important Dates

According to the 2026 Hindu calendar for Delhi, Chhath Puja celebrations will take place over four days, beginning with Nahay Khay and ending with Usha Arghya.

For New Delhi, the listed sunset on November 15 is approximately 5:28 PM, while sunrise on November 16 is approximately 6:44 AM. Actual observance timings can vary by location, so devotees should consult their local Panchang.

History of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja has deep roots in Indian religious traditions and is associated with the worship of the Sun God. Surya Dev is regarded as a source of light, energy, warmth and life.

References to the Sun’s importance can be found in ancient Hindu traditions and scriptures. The Sun has long been respected as a symbol of vitality, knowledge and the natural cycle of life.

Chhathi Maiya and Traditional Beliefs

Chhathi Maiya is worshipped during this festival and is traditionally associated with the protection and well-being of children and families. Devotees express their gratitude and seek blessings for happiness, prosperity and good health.

Different communities preserve their own stories and customs related to Chhath. These traditions have been passed from one generation to another, making the festival an important part of regional cultural identity.

Religious and Cultural Significance of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is more than a religious celebration. It teaches people the importance of gratitude, self-discipline, simplicity and respect for the environment.

1. Worship of the Sun God

Surya Dev represents energy and life. Offering Arghya to the Sun is an expression of gratitude for the natural light and energy that support life on Earth.

2. Faith and Discipline

The festival is known for its traditional observances, preparation and discipline. Devotees follow their family and community customs with dedication.

3. Family Happiness

Many devotees observe Chhath Puja while praying for the well-being of their children, family members and loved ones.

4. Community Togetherness

Families, neighbours and communities work together to prepare the ghats, arrange offerings and maintain traditional celebrations.

Four Days of Chhath Puja: Rituals and Traditions

Day 1: Nahay Khay – November 13, 2026

The first day is known as Nahay Khay. Devotees traditionally clean their homes and prepare for the festival. A ritual bath is taken, and food is prepared with particular attention to cleanliness and traditional practices.

Traditional meals may include rice, chana dal and seasonal vegetables. The day marks the beginning of the four-day celebration.

Day 2: Lohanda and Kharna – November 14, 2026

The second day is called Kharna or Lohanda. Devotees prepare traditional offerings and worship with devotion. After the evening prayers, Kharna prasad is shared among family members and visitors.

Popular offerings include jaggery-based kheer, chapati and fruits. The observance of fasting varies according to individual tradition and health.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya – November 15, 2026

The third day is the main day of Chhath Puja. In the evening, devotees gather at riverbanks, ponds and other designated water bodies to offer Arghya to the setting Sun.

Traditional baskets and soops are filled with fruits, thekua, sugarcane and other offerings. The atmosphere becomes especially beautiful with devotional songs, prayers and the glow of traditional lamps.

Day 4: Usha Arghya – November 16, 2026

The final day begins early in the morning. Devotees return to the water bodies to offer Arghya to the rising Sun.

After completing the traditional prayers, the fast is concluded according to family customs. This ritual is known as Parana and marks the end of Chhath Puja.

Traditional Chhath Puja Foods and Prasad

Food is an important part of Chhath Puja. Traditional offerings are generally prepared with care and cleanliness, following regional customs.

Popular Chhath Puja Offerings

• Thekua: A traditional sweet prepared with wheat flour and jaggery or sugar.
• Kasar: A traditional sweet made using rice flour and jaggery.
• Bananas: An important fruit included in many offerings.
• Sugarcane: Commonly used in traditional Chhath arrangements.
• Coconut: A familiar offering in Hindu worship.
• Seasonal Fruits: Different fruits are arranged in bamboo baskets.
• Kheer: A traditional preparation, particularly associated with Kharna.

How Chhath Puja Is Celebrated Across India

Chhath Puja is celebrated with special enthusiasm in Bihar, where the festival has a strong cultural connection. Villages and cities become vibrant with devotional songs, traditional decorations and community gatherings.

Chhath Puja in Delhi

Delhi also witnesses large Chhath celebrations. People from different parts of the city gather at designated ghats and water bodies to perform traditional rituals. Community groups and local authorities often make arrangements for devotees.

Chhath Puja in Bihar and Jharkhand

In Bihar and Jharkhand, the festival is deeply connected with family traditions. Many people travel to their hometowns to celebrate with relatives and participate in community worship.

Chhath Puja Around the World

Indian communities living in countries such as Nepal, the United States, the United Kingdom and other parts of the world also celebrate Chhath Puja, keeping their cultural traditions alive.

Chhath Puja and the Importance of Nature

One of the most meaningful aspects of Chhath Puja is its connection with nature. The Sun, water, fruits and other natural elements are central to the celebration.

The festival provides an opportunity to remember the importance of clean rivers, ponds and public spaces. Devotees and organisers can help by avoiding plastic waste, using reusable materials and ensuring that offerings and decorations do not pollute water bodies.

Happy Chhath Puja 2026: Wishes and Messages

• May Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya bless your family with happiness, peace and prosperity.
• May the rising Sun bring new hope, positivity and success into your life.
• Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and blessed Chhath Puja.
• May your home always shine with happiness, love and good fortune.
• May this sacred festival fill your life with faith, devotion and positive energy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chhath Puja 2026