Chhath Puja 2024: The revered Chhath Puja festival, celebrated from the fourth to the eighth day of the waxing phase of Kartik month in the Hindu lunar calendar, has begun today, Tuesday, November 5, 2024. This four-day festival, deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, starts with 'Nahay-Khay,' followed by 'Kharna,' the evening offering (Sandhya Arghya), and concludes with the morning offering (Usha Arghya).
Throughout these days, devotees observe strict rituals and rules. Purity is of utmost importance during Chhath Puja, and it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure the sanctity of the festival. Any oversight can impact the spiritual merit associated with this observance.
Here’s a look at some important customs and what to avoid during Chhath Puja to maintain the sanctity of this occasion.
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What To Avoid During Chhath Puja:
- Avoid Haircuts and Grooming: Refrain from cutting hair, trimming beards, or clipping nails during the Puja days, as these activities are considered inauspicious.
- No Handling of Puja Items Without Bathing: Do not touch any items related to Chhath Puja unless you’ve bathed, as this may render them impure.
- Prepare Only Sattvic Meals: For all four days, only sattvic (pure, vegetarian) meals should be prepared at home for the family. Avoid garlic, onion, and any tamasic (non-vegetarian or strong-flavored) foods.
- Avoid Sleeping on a Bed: Observing devotees are advised not to sleep on a bed during these days and should instead rest on the floor as a mark of humility and devotion.
- Menstruating Women Should Keep Distance: Women who are menstruating should avoid the Puja area and all related items during the festival.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Refrain from consuming radishes, carrots, and raw turmeric during Chhath Puja.
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