chhath puja 2025Image Credit source: PTI
Chhath Puja Significance: Chhath, a great festival of folk faith, is a unique festival of worshiping Sun God and expressing gratitude towards nature. As much as this festival is dedicated to Sun God, it is also a symbol of devotion to Chhathi Maiya. But have you ever wondered why the direct deity Surya and the folk goddess Chhathi Maiya are worshiped together in this great festival? Come, let us know the classical and mythological reasons behind this.
Chhathi Maiya is the sister of Sun God.
According to belief, chhath puja The most important classical reason for worshiping Sun God and Chhathi Maiya together is considered to be the brother-sister relationship between the two.
Mythological belief: According to folk tales and beliefs, Chhathi Maiya is considered to be the sister of Sun God. Therefore, during Chhath, Vrati (those observing fast) please their sister Chhathi Maiya by offering Arghya to the Sun God. It symbolizes the sacred relationship between brother and sister and the harmony of nature. The word Chhath is related to the Sanskrit word Shashthi, which means sixth day. This is the reason why Chhath festival is celebrated on Shashthi Tithi and Chhathi Maiya is worshiped on this day. It is mentioned in the Puranas that Chhathi Maiya protects children and blesses their long life and healthy life. This is the reason why women keep this fast for the happiness of children and well-being of the family.
Combined form of Surya and Shakti
Worship of Shakti first: According to astrology and theology, before worshiping any deity, it is considered important to worship his power. According to some beliefs, Chhathi Maiya is also considered to be the Shakti form of Sun God. Therefore, before worshiping the Sun on Chhath festival, Chhathi Maiya is worshiped in the form of his power.
Usha and Pratyusha: During Chhath Puja, the fasting people offer Arghya to the setting (evening Arghya) and rising (morning Arghya) Sun. The last ray of the setting sun is called ‘Pratyusha’ and the first ray of the rising sun is called ‘Usha’. Chhath Maiya is also considered to be the form of Usha (wife of the Sun or goddess of rays) in the Vedas. Thus, along with the Sun, his power and light are also worshipped.
Meaning of worship: Thus, chhath puja By worshiping Sun God, physical health and energy are sought, while by worshiping Chhathi Maiya, blessings for the longevity of children and family well-being are sought.
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.