Chhath Puja 2025: Chhath, the sacred festival of seeking the blessings of Chhath Maiya and Surya Dev, has started today with much fanfare with ‘Nahay-Khay.’ This four-day ritual (from October 25 to 28) is a symbol of purity, discipline and unwavering faith. The first day symbolizes not only physical cleansing but also mental resolution. Today, the fasting people will consume special Satvik food, ‘Kaddu Bhaat’ (Pumpkin Rice). Let us know in detail the importance of this day, the specialty of ‘Kaddu Bhaat,’ and the rules to be followed.
Beginning of Sun worship
In Chhath Puja, the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, who are symbols of energy, vitality and child happiness, are worshipped. It is only after bathing and eating that the fasting person takes a pledge to purify mind, words and actions. Sunrise in Delhi today will be at 6:28 am and sunset will be at 5:41 pm, which determines the auspicious time for the puja.
Nahay-Khay: First stage of purification
The literal meaning of ‘Nahay-Khay’ is ‘to take food after taking a bath.’ This lays a strong foundation for the 36-hour Nirjala fast.
- Purification and resolution: The fasting person wakes up before sunrise and takes a bath in the Ganges or the holy river. If impossible, take a bath at home by mixing Ganga water. After that, wearing clean clothes, Chhath Sankalp is taken, which prepares the body and mind for the fast.
- House cleaning: Deep cleaning of the entire house, especially the kitchen. It is mandatory to use new and clean utensils for Prasad.
- Satvik Food: Pure, Satvik food only once a day.
‘Kaddu Bhaat’ : A Precious Offering of Purity and Nutrition
The main food of Nahay-Khay is ‘Kaddu Bhaat’ (or gourd bhaat), which consists of Arwa rice, gram dal and pumpkin/gourd vegetable.
- Satvik properties: Made without garlic-onion, pure ghee, mustard oil and rock salt. It is considered completely pure and nutritious, which makes the beginning of the festival sacred.
- Fast preparation: Pumpkin contains more than 90% water and nutrients, providing energy, hydration and vitamins for a long Nirjala fast.
- Tradition and Belief: Pumpkin has been called a sacred fruit in folk beliefs. It is a symbol of divine grace while maintaining health balance.
Mandatory rules of Nahay-Khay
There are strict rules for purification on this day:
- Pre-sunrise bath and home purification.
- Food should be cooked in earthen or copper utensils on a wood/earthen stove.
- Garlic-onion and common salt are prohibited.
- First offer the Prasad to Sun God and Mother Annapurna and then consume it.
Chhath Puja is an integral part of life for millions of devotees in eastern India, including Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. This festival conveys the message of environmental protection, family unity and positive energy.
