Chhath Puja 2024: The grand festival of Chhath has begun. After the bath on November 5, today, November 6, 2024, marks the day of Khurna, followed by the evening Arghya on November 7 and the morning Arghya on November 8, marking the auspicious conclusion of Chhath. Chhath is a festival whose roots go back not just to the present, but to the times of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Let’s explore the connection of Chhath festival with the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
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Connection Of Chhath With Ramayan Era
According to ancient myths, after 14 years, when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya, he decided to perform the Rajasuya Yajna to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, as advised by the sages. A call was sent to Rishi Mudgal to invite him for the yajna. However, Rishi Mudgal declined the invitation and instead asked Lord Rama and Mata Sita to visit his ashram. Upon arriving at the ashram, Rishi Mudgal purified Mata Sita by sprinkling Ganga water over her. Following Rishi Mudgal's guidance, Mata Sita worshipped the Sun God and observed the Chhath fast on the Shukla Paksha’s sixth day.
Connection Of Chhath With Mahabharat Era
According to mythological stories, when the Pandavas had lost everything in a game of dice, Draupadi observed the Chhath fast. By performing this fast, her wish was fulfilled, and the Pandavas regained their kingdom. Another belief is that the Chhath festival has been celebrated since the Mahabharata era. It is believed that Karna, the son of the Sun God, initiated the Chhath festival. Karna was one of the greatest devotees of the Sun God. It is said that Karna would stand in water for several hours every day, offering Arghya to the Sun God. With the blessings of Surya Dev, Karna became a great warrior.
Chhath is primarily celebrated in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. However, due to its significance, this festival is now celebrated not just in India but also in foreign countries. This deeply devotional festival is revered by people of all religions, not only Hindus.
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