Chaiti Chhath, a revered Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God), will begin on April 1, 2025. This festival is observed for the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of children and for the happiness of the family. Devotees, both men and women, take a vow on this day and observe a strict fasting ritual. According to the Hindu calendar, Chhath Puja is celebrated on the sixth day (Shashthi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. The fasting begins with Nahay-Khay and culminates after a 36-hour-long waterless fast with Arghya (offering) to the Sun God.
Chaiti Chhath 2025 Dates & Schedule
As per the Hindu Panchang, Chaiti Chhath will be observed from April 1 to April 4, 2025. The rituals will commence with Nahay-Khay on April 1.
Chaiti Chhath Puja Rituals & Traditions
April 1, 2025 – Nahay-Khay (Holy Bath and Food Ritual)
On this day, devotees take a holy bath in a river, pond, or any water body, cleanse themselves, and perform the worship of Lord Surya. They prepare a pure vegetarian meal consisting of Arwa Chawal (boiled rice), Chana Dal (Bengal gram lentils), and Lauki ki Sabzi (bottle gourd curry). After consuming this meal, they take a vow to observe the Chhath fast with full devotion.
April 2, 2025 – Kharna (Fasting Begins)
On the second day, devotees begin their 36-hour-long Nirjala (waterless) fast. In the evening, a special Prasad (offering) is prepared, which includes Gud ki Kheer (jaggery rice pudding) and Roti (wheat bread). This Prasad is first offered to Lord Surya and then distributed among family and neighbors. Traditionally, the cooking for this day is done on a new earthen or brass stove.
April 3, 2025 – Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering to the Setting Sun)
On the third day, devotees gather at riverbanks or water bodies to offer Arghya (water oblation) to the setting sun. This ritual is performed to seek the blessings of Lord Surya for prosperity, health, and happiness.
April 4, 2025 – Udayman Surya Arghya (Morning Offering to the Rising Sun & Conclusion of the Fast)
On the final day, devotees offer Arghya to the rising sun. This marks the completion of the Chhath fast. After this ritual, the fasting individuals break their fast (Parana), concluding the four-day-long festival with prayers and gratitude.
Chaiti Chhath is a festival of immense devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual significance, observed with great enthusiasm, especially in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Nepal. It is believed that worshiping the Sun God during this time fulfills wishes, grants happiness, and ensures family well-being.