One of India’s most significant traditional festivals, Chhath Puja 2026, begins today, November 13, with the observance of Nahay Khay. Dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, the four-day festival brings together millions of devotees across Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and other parts of India.
The festival is celebrated with deep devotion, discipline and traditional rituals, reflecting gratitude towards nature and the Sun, which is regarded as the source of life and energy.
Chhath Puja 2026: Complete Four-Day Schedule
The celebrations begin with Nahay Khay on November 13 and conclude with Usha Arghya on November 16.
November 13 – Nahay Khay:
The first day focuses on cleanliness, ritual bathing and preparing traditional sattvik food. Kaddu Bhaat is among the most popular meals prepared on this occasion.
November 14 – Kharna: Devotees observe a day-long fast and perform evening prayers before accepting traditional prasad, usually consisting of jaggery-based kheer and other offerings.
November 15 – Sandhya Arghya: Devotees gather at riverbanks, ponds and designated ghats to offer Arghya to the setting Sun.
November 16 – Usha Arghya: The festival concludes with prayers and offerings to the rising Sun, followed by Parana, marking the completion of the fast.
Why Is Chhath Puja Celebrated?
Chhath Puja holds a special place in Indian cultural and religious traditions. Unlike many other festivals, it involves worshipping both the setting and rising Sun, symbolising gratitude, continuity and the cycle of life.
Devotees observe rigorous fasting and follow traditional practices with a strong emphasis on purity and discipline. Thekua, seasonal fruits, sugarcane and other traditional offerings are important parts of the celebration.
Ghats Come Alive With Devotion and Preparations
As the festival begins, preparations are taking place across several cities, with families arranging puja materials, cleaning homes and preparing traditional offerings.
Riverbanks and community ghats are expected to witness large gatherings over the coming days. Chhath Puja is particularly significant in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, but its celebrations have also spread across different Indian states and communities living abroad.
Beyond its religious importance, the festival represents community participation, cultural identity and the enduring connection between people and nature.
As devotees begin their four-day spiritual journey today, Chhath Puja once again brings together generations through faith, tradition and collective celebration.
