Chhath Puja 2025: Auspicious time, rituals, and significance of offering arghya

Chhath Puja 2025: Following Dhanteras and Diwali, the North Indian skies become once again full of devotion and discipline as preparations are made for Chhath Puja. Observed predominantly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja is a four-day festival that worship Surya Dev, the Sun God, and Chhathi Maiya, the goddess who bestows health and wealth on children.

The festival starts with ‘Nahay-Khay’, in which devotees take a sacred bath and have a simple, satvik food prepared in a clean setup. The second day, Kharna, is when fasting begins. It is a day of thanksgiving and preparation for the more intense rituals to come.

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Patna, Bihar: Chhath Puja celebrations begin with the traditional Nahay Khay ritual, marking the start of four days of devotion, fasting, and prayers to the Sun God.#ChhathPuja #Patna #Bihar #NahayKhay #FestiveVibes #ChhathPuja2025

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On the third day, Kartik Shukla Shashthi, the main ritual takes place. Devotees observe a strict fast without water (nirjala vrat) and gather near rivers, ponds, or any water body at sunset to offer arghya to the setting sun. This offering is made with deep reverence: fruits, sugarcane, coconuts, and the traditional thekua (a special sweet made from wheat flour and jaggery) are neatly arranged in a bamboo basket.

Also Read: May it infuse new energy into everyone’s life: Leaders wish people on Chhath Puja Day-3

As the golden rays of the setting sun disappear in the horizon, the followers stand waist-deep in water and present milk and water to the Sun God chanting “Om Suryaya Namah”. The atmosphere resounds with prayers, folk melodies, and the aroma of incense.

Below, families pray for bliss, prosperity, and good health of the children. Lighting a small earthen lamp and releasing it on the water concludes the evening ritual.The fourth and last day known as Kartik Shukla Saptami commences early in the morning.

With the first light of dawn devotees once again assemble at the ghats to pay arghya to the dawn rising sun signifying new beginnings and the culmination of their fast. With this daily ritual, the four-day celebration comes to a close.

Arghya timing

The best time to offer arghya to the sun setting is between 5:10 PM and 5:58 PM on Monday, October 27, according to the Hindu Panchang in 2025.

Aside from religion, Chhath is also about health and equilibrium. According to belief, the fast cleanses the body and mind, regulates digestion, and boosts the immune system.

Astrologically, the ritual is also beneficial for persons having a debilitated Sun in their natal chart.