Chhath Puja: A Festival of Devotion and Gratitude
Chhath Puja, one of the most sacred and eco-friendly festivals of India, is celebrated with unmatched devotion, primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal’s Terai region. Dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya, the festival is observed to thank nature for sustaining life and to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and happiness.
Celebrated a few days after Diwali, the festival has devotees offering arghya (prayers) to the setting sun and again to the rising sun the next morning. The sight of rivers and ghats filled with thousands of diyas, chants, and prayers creates an atmosphere of spiritual serenity.
PM Modi’s Announcement: Recognition on a Global Stage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the Central Government is working to include Chhath Puja in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.
In the 126th episode of his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio broadcast, PM Modi urged people to buy swadeshi (indigenous) products this festive season, including at least one Khadi item on October 2, and share it on social media with ‘#VocalForLocal’. He also lauded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its century-long commitment to national service.
Such recognition would not only give global exposure to the festival but also highlight India’s rich traditions rooted in harmony with nature.
PM Modi noted, “Chhath Puja is not just a festival but a symbol of India’s cultural identity and ecological balance. The Centre is committed to ensuring that this heritage is recognized worldwide.”
Rituals That Celebrate Purity
What makes Chhath Puja unique is its simplicity and emphasis on purity. Devotees, known as Vratis, follow rigorous rituals, often observing a 36-hour fast without water. The four-day festival includes:
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Nahay-Khay – The first day, when devotees bathe and prepare satvik (pure vegetarian) meals.
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Lohanda/Kharna – The second day, marked by a fast that ends with offerings of kheer and fruits.
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Sandhya Arghya – On the third day, prayers are offered to the setting sun.
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Usha Arghya – The final morning, when devotees worship the rising sun before breaking their fast.
These rituals symbolize gratitude, humility, and the eternal connection between humans and the elements of nature.
The Human Touch: A Festival Beyond Religion
Although rooted in Hindu tradition, Chhath Puja transcends religious boundaries. People of different faiths participate in or support the rituals, highlighting India’s culture of inclusivity.
For millions of families, Chhath is not just about tradition; it is about togetherness. Families reunite, villages light up, and communities gather at riverbanks to celebrate nature’s blessings.
For migrants working in metros and abroad, Chhath Puja often evokes deep nostalgia. Many travel long distances to be with their families, proving that the festival is more than a ritual — it is an emotion.
Why UNESCO Recognition Matters
If included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list, Chhath Puja would:
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Provide international recognition for India’s eco-friendly cultural practices.
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Promote tourism in states where Chhath is celebrated on a large scale.
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Preserve and pass on traditional rituals to future generations.
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Strengthen India’s cultural diplomacy by showcasing its deep-rooted traditions.
Experts believe this would be a proud moment not just for Bihar and Uttar Pradesh but for the entire country.
A Festival of Light, Faith, and Nature
Chhath Puja is more than a celebration — it is a prayer for life itself. From the setting sun to the rising dawn, it embodies hope, gratitude, and the eternal cycle of nature.
As India works towards securing UNESCO recognition for Chhath Puja, the festival stands as a shining example of how faith and ecology can come together in harmony.
For devotees, however, the true recognition lies in the spiritual fulfillment they feel when offering prayers at the banks of rivers, standing waist-deep in water, with folded hands facing the glowing sun.
