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Chhath Puja festival in 2026 falls on Sun, 15th November according to the predictions by SearchIndia. Chhath Puja is a hindu festival and is celebrated by North Indian people. Chhath Puja is celebrated as one of the 86 Hindu Festivals by North Indian people and celebrations and rituals remarking Chhath Puja is carried out differently in different parts.
Chhath Puja is a four-day Hindu festival dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and his consort Usha, celebrated primarily in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. It takes place during Kartik month (October-November) on the 6th lunar day (Chhath). Devotees observe rigorous rituals-fasting, holy riverbank bathing, and offering arghya (water offerings) to the rising and setting sun-to express gratitude and seek blessings for health, prosperity, and family well-being.
The festival begins with 'Nahay Khay' (day 1) when devotees purify by bathing and consuming simple sattvic meals. On 'Kharna' (day 2), they fast until sunset, breaking it with kheer (sweet rice porridge), chapati, and fruits. 'Sandhya Arghya' (day 3) involves offering water and prayers to the setting sun at riverbanks like the Ganges, accompanied by singing folk hymns (Kosi, Jawal). The final day, 'Usha Arghya' (day 4), sees devotees again offer prayers at sunrise, conclude the fast only after the ritual, and share prasad with friends and family. Merit is reinforced by offering seasonal fruits, Thekua (fried wheat snack), and performing charity.
Chhath Puja's cultural significance extends far beyond rituals. Entire communities mobilize cleanup drives of water bodies for worship. In cities and abroad, makeshift Chhath Ghats are set up; even long-distance migrants recreate the festival in solidarity with homeland traditions. In regions like Madhubani, artisanal rangoli depicts mythological scenes to honor Surya. Song traditions also thrive: families sing folk ballads and women perform kumhar-style group rituals. The festival's inclusivity is seen in participation by people of various castes and religions, unified in devotion. Chhath promotes ecological awareness, family unity, and renewal of faith-offering spiritual balance and community purpose.