chhath-puja

An ancient Hindu festival, dedicated to Lord Surya and Chhathi Maiya (known to be the sister of Surya), Chhath Puja is unique to the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and the country of Nepal. It is the only Vedic festival that is dedicated to the Sun God, who is supposed to be the source of all powers, and Chhathi Maiya (another name for Goddess Usha from the Vedic period). The god of light, energy, and life force is worshipped to promote the well-being, development, and prosperity of human beings. Through this festival, people aim towards thanking the Sun God for four days. The devotees who observe the fast during this festival are called Vrati. Traditionally, this festival is celebrated twice a year, once in the summer and the second time during the winter. The Karthik Chhath is celebrated during October or November and it is performed on Kartika Shukla Shashti which is the sixth day of the month of Karthika according to the Hindu Calendar. Commemorated on the 6th Day after Diwali, another major Hindu festival, it generally falls during the month of October-November. It is also celebrated during the summer and is commonly known as Chaiti Chhath. This is celebrated a few days after Holi.