Kharn Prasad Items and Importance: Kharn Puja is performed on the second day of Nahay Khay, in which two important items are prepared for offering. Here we have explained in detail about the Prasad made on Kharna, its importance and precautions.
Every day of Chhath Puja has its own special religious and cultural significance. But the day of Kharna is considered the most sacred and emotional. This is the second day of Chhath Mahaparva, which is also called ‘Lohanda’ or ‘Kharna’. On this day, the devotees observe waterless fast throughout the day and take Prasad in the evening after sunset. Kharna Prasad is not only the conclusion of the fast but also the sacred beginning of the next two days of festival. Let us know what is included in the Prasad of Kharna, what is its religious significance and what precautions should be kept in mind while making the Prasad.
These things are made in Kharna Prasad
On the day of Kharna, great purity and cleanliness is maintained in making Prasad. The house is first completely cleaned, then Prasad is made over mango wood fire on an earthen stove. The main offerings on this day include jaggery kheer, roti (or puri) and sugarcane juice or pure water. Jaggery kheer is made from milk, rice and jaggery, in which sugar is not used. This kheer is considered a symbol of ‘purity’ and ‘sacrifice’. Whereas roti or puri is baked in desi ghee.
Religious importance of Kharna Prasad
Kharna Prasad is considered not just food but a medium of spiritual purification. After fasting for the whole day, when the devotee worships and accepts this Prasad, it is believed that both his body and soul are purified. Jaggery kheer is a symbol of sweetness and satisfaction, while roti is a symbol of labor and sadhana. The Prasad that the devotees eat on this day forms the basis of the Prasad to be offered to the rising Sun and the setting Sun from the next day. After eating Kharna Prasad, the devotees observe Nirjala fast the next day.
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Precautions and importance of purity of Kharna Puja
Purity is considered most important on the day of Kharna. While making Prasad, the kitchen should be completely clean and no impure object should be nearby. Prasad is not made in iron or aluminum utensils, but in brass, bronze or earthen utensils. The fasting person should remain dehydrated throughout the day and should perform puja and take Prasad in the evening only after sunset. Rest of the family members should also take special care of cleanliness and purity while preparing bhog.
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Chhath Puja is incomplete without Kharna
In Chhath Mahaparva, Kharna is considered as the ‘bridge’ which connects the seeker from fasting to worship. The Prasad on this day is the first means of pleasing the Sun God. It is believed that if Kharna is worshiped with purity and devotion, the blessings of Sun God bring blessings of happiness, prosperity and health in the life of the devotee.