The festival unfolds over four rigorous days, each marked by distinct rituals of purification and devotion:
Devotees begin with a holy dip in a river or pond to cleanse the body and soul, followed by a single sattvic (pure vegetarian) meal prepared with utmost care.
Devotees observe a day-long fast without water, breaking it only after sunset with kheer (rice pudding) and roti .
The Radiance of Gratitude: The Essence and Images of Chhath Puja
This is the peak of devotion. Families gather at riverbanks at sunset to offer arghya (offerings) to the setting sun, standing waist-deep in water.
Chhath Puja is one of India's most ancient and revered festivals, dedicated to the Sun God, , and his consort, Chhathi Maiya . Unlike many Hindu festivals centered on temple-based idol worship, Chhath is a uniquely aniconic celebration of the natural elements—light, water, and earth. The digital circulation of "Happy Chhath Puja" images and photos serves as a modern bridge, connecting a global diaspora to these deep-rooted traditions that symbolize the timeless dialogue between humanity and nature. A Four-Day Spiritual Journey