Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Surya (Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, celebrated over four days. It begins with Nahay Khay, where devotees take a holy bath and prepare simple vegetarian meals. The subsequent days involve rigorous fasting, offering prayers, and arghya (water offerings) to the rising and setting sun. Key Dates for Chhath Puja 2025: - Day 1: Nahay Khay - October 25, 2025 (Saturday) - Day 2: Kharna - October 26, 2025 (Sunday) - Day 3: Sandhya Arghya - October 27, 2025 (Monday) - Day 4: Usha Arghya and Parana - October 28, 2025 (Tuesday) Rituals and Significance: - Nahay Khay: Devotees purify themselves with a holy bath and eat a simple meal. - Kharna: Devotees fast throughout the day and break their fast with jaggery kheer and puris in the evening. - Sandhya Arghya: Offerings are made to the setting sun. - Usha Arghya: Devotees offer prayers to the rising sun and break their fast. Importance of Chhath Puja: - Expresses gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life - Seeks blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity - Emphasizes discipline, spiritual growth, and environmental consciousness - Fosters community bonding and cultural heritage Chhath Puja is primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal, showcasing its rich cultural significance ¹ ².