10 Reasons Why Chhath Puja in Bihar Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Chhath Puja, an ancient Vedic festival, is one of the most revered celebrations in India. Dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and his sister Chhathi Maiya, the festival is an ode to nature, purity, and the harmonious balance between the universe and humankind. Chhath Puja is particularly celebrated in Bihar with grandeur, devotion, and strict adherence to rituals, making it an experience you don’t want to miss.

If you’re planning your travel bucket list for 2024, here are 10 compelling reasons why Chhath Puja in Bihar should feature at the top of it. From spiritual significance to cultural exploration, this festival offers a rare and authentic glimpse into India’s rich heritage and devotion.

Witness the Spiritual Significance of Chhath Puja:

Chhath Puja is not just a festival; it is an age-old tradition that holds profound spiritual meaning. The festival is celebrated to honour the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya, believed to be the goddess of fertility and strength. The significance of Chhath Puja is reflected in the elaborate rituals, which emphasize purity, dedication, and discipline.

The Sun is worshipped as the source of all life on Earth, and devotees offer prayers for health, prosperity, and happiness. The practice of offering ‘Arghya’ (water) to the setting and rising sun symbolizes the cycle of life, renewal, and gratitude. Chhath Puja 2024 will be an ideal time to witness this sacred practice, giving you an opportunity to experience a festival that deeply connects humans with nature.

Experience the Unique Rituals and Fasting:

The rituals of Chhath Puja are unlike any other festival in India. Spanning four days, each day holds significant meaning and involves rigorous fasting and self-discipline. What makes the Chhath Puja celebration in Bihar special is the way devotees engage in fasting, often without food and water, while maintaining purity of body and mind.

The Four - Day celebration includes:

• Day 1 (Nahai Khai): Devotees cleanse themselves by taking a holy dip and consume the first meal after starting the fast.
• Day 2 (Kharna): Devotees observe a full day of fasting, breaking it only at night with a special offering of kheer and jaggery.
• Day 3 (Sandhya Arghya): Offerings are made to the setting sun along riverbanks, and devotees stand in water to pray.
• Day 4 (Usha Arghya): The fast is broken after offering prayers to the rising sun, marking the end of the festival.
• The rigorous fasting symbolizes purification and renewal, making the festival deeply spiritual. Attending Chhath Puja in Bihar will give your insight into the power of faith, dedication, and self-discipline.

Witness Devotion on the Ghats of Bihar:

There is something truly magical about the Chhath Puja celebration in Bihar that takes place along the ghats of major rivers, particularly the Ganges in Patna. The ghats become a hub of devotion, with thousands of devotees gathering to offer their prayers to the setting and rising sun. The scene is mesmerizing—colourful sarees, illuminated ghats, incense filling the air, and chants echoing all around.

This unique setting makes Chhath Puja a spectacular visual and spiritual experience. The devotion of the Vratis (devotees) standing in the waters, hands folded in prayer, while the sun sets behind them, is a breathtaking moment that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

The All-Inclusive Nature of Chhath Puja:

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chhath Puja in Bihar is the inclusive nature of the festival. The rituals are performed without any caste, creed, or gender distinctions, bringing people together to celebrate as one. Unlike many festivals, priests do not lead the prayers—individuals and families themselves carry out the rituals, making the celebration personal and deeply connected.

Chhath Puja emphasizes unity, where communities come together to prepare the ghats, clean the surroundings, and ensure everything is ready for the rituals. You will be welcomed by the locals with open arms and encouraged to participate or observe the rituals, making you feel like a part of the festival. Participating in this all-inclusive festival will give you a rare and authentic cultural experience, where you can connect with the locals and witness the purity of devotion firsthand.

Experience the Simplicity and Purity of Offerings:

During Chhath Puja in Bihar, devotees make offerings to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, including seasonal fruits, sugarcane, coconut, and special sweets like ‘Thekua.’ These offerings are simple yet symbolic, representing purity, gratitude, and reverence for nature’s bounty. The simplicity of the offerings is a reflection of the humility and respect devotees have for the gods and goddesses. These rituals are not extravagant but are performed with immense faith and devotion. The offerings are prepared with care, and the entire family takes part in arranging them.

For visitors, tasting the special prasad and understanding the meaning behind each offering can be an enlightening experience. By attending Chhath Puja 2024, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and spiritual values embedded in this beautiful festival.

Discover the Cultural Heritage of Bihar:

Chhath Puja in Bihar is not just a religious festival but also a celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage. The festival showcases traditional music, art, and crafts that have been preserved for centuries. From the folk songs dedicated to Chhathi Maiya sung by women during the rituals to the beautiful rangoli designs adorning homes and ghats, every aspect of the festival reflects Bihar’s deep-rooted traditions.

While visiting Bihar for Chhath Puja, you can explore the state’s historical and cultural landmarks. Patna, Gaya, and Nalanda are home to some of the most ancient and significant sites in India. Take a detour to explore Nalanda University, Bodh Gaya, and Vaishali, all of which add an extra layer of cultural richness to your trip.

By attending Chhath Puja 2024, you’ll not only witness a magnificent festival but also delve into Bihar’s history and cultural diversity.

Enjoy the Traditional Foods of Chhath Puja:

No festival in India is complete without food, and Chhath Puja in Bihar is no exception. However, unlike other festivals that involve grand feasting, Chhath Puja focuses on simple, traditional foods that are both wholesome and symbolic. Thekua, a deep-fried sweet made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, is the most popular food prepared during Chhath.

Other offerings include rice, fruits, coconut, and sugarcane, all of which are natural, unprocessed, and healthy. After the rituals, these foods are distributed as prasad among family members and communities, creating a sense of sharing and togetherness.

In 2024, if you visit Bihar for Chhath Puja, make sure to taste these traditional delicacies and immerse yourself in the simplicity and sanctity of the festival’s food culture.

Be Part of a Festival Free from Commercialization:

Unlike many other Indian festivals that have become heavily commercialized, Chhath Puja in Bihar has managed to retain its authenticity and simplicity. The focus of the festival remains on devotion, purity, and the rituals themselves, rather than on extravagant celebrations.

There are no loud firecrackers, fancy decorations, or opulent feasts. Instead, the festival revolves around personal prayer, family gatherings, and offering gratitude to nature. This simplicity allows travellers to experience the festival in its truest form, untouched by the excesses of commercialization.

For those seeking an authentic cultural experience in 2024, Chhath Puja in Bihar offers the perfect opportunity to witness a festival rooted in tradition and devotion.

Witness the Environmental Awareness Embedded in the Rituals:

Chhath Puja has a strong connection to nature, and one of the core aspects of the festival is its emphasis on environmental purity. Devotees are required to cleanse their surroundings and keep the ghats clean as part of the rituals. This focus on cleanliness and environmental awareness is not just a modern trend but a practice that has been followed for centuries.

The festival encourages sustainable living and a deep respect for natural resources. The food offered is simple, vegetarian, and locally sourced, reducing the ecological footprint. The focus on cleanliness, especially around water bodies, is a testament to the importance of maintaining harmony with nature.

For environmentally conscious travellers, Chhath Puja celebration in Bihar provides an opportunity to witness a festival that promotes eco-friendly practices, offering valuable lessons in sustainability and respect for the environment.

A Rare Opportunity to Witness Devotion Across Generations:

Chhath Puja in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand is one of those rare festivals where the devotion is passed down through generations. Children, adults, and the elderly alike participate in the rituals with equal zeal and dedication. The festival offers a rare glimpse into the continuity of tradition, with families teaching younger generations the importance of the rituals and their meanings. As a traveller, witnessing this multi-generational devotion is an awe-inspiring experience. The shared faith and commitment across age groups reflect the strong cultural fabric that holds the community together.

In Chhath Puja 2024, you will not only witness the rituals but also see how faith, family, and tradition come together, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

Attending Chhath Puja in Bihar or the other states is more than just witnessing a festival—it is about immersing yourself in a celebration that combines spirituality, tradition, culture, and nature. The Chhath Puja celebration in Bihar offers travellers a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of devotion, the simplicity of life, and the beauty of cultural heritage in one of India’s most vibrant states. From the spiritual significance of Chhath Puja to the inclusive and environmentally conscious practices embedded in the rituals, this festival is a must-see for anyone seeking an authentic and transformative experience. As you plan your travels for 2024, make sure to add Chhath Puja in Bihar to your bucket list—you won’t regret it.

By being part of this festival, you’ll return with not just memories but a deeper understanding of India’s ancient traditions and the strength of devotion that continues to thrive in modern times.

Where to stay in Bihar during Chhath Puja?

Experience the spiritual essence of Chhath Puja at the serene Marasa Sarovar Premiere, Bodhgaya, a Club Mahindra associate resort. Surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Buddhist-inspired architecture, this resort in Bihar connects you with nature and tradition. After participating in the Chhath rituals, indulge in gourmet meals at the Club Mahindra restaurants and unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments. This tranquil retreat, known for its wellness offerings, provides the perfect setting for self-reflection and spiritual rejuvenation during the Chhath festivities.

Where to stay in Uttar Pradesh during Chhath Puja?

One of the best places to stay in Uttar Pradesh, especially if you're visiting Agra, is the Saura Hotel, Agra - A Club Mahindra Associate. This beautiful resort in Agra offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, located near the iconic Taj Mahal. Whether you're travelling for leisure or a family vacation, this resort ensures a memorable stay with its spacious rooms, modern amenities, and warm hospitality.

Which states in India celebrate Chhath Puja?

Chhath Puja is a Hindu Vedic festival celebrated across the Indian subcontinent, with prominence in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Madhya Pradesh in India.

Did you know: Chhath puja is also celebrated in certain regions in Nepal. 

This ancient festival is dedicated to worshiping the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, seeking their blessings for prosperity, health, and well-being. The festival is marked by rigorous rituals, including fasting, offering prayers to the setting and rising sun, and standing in water to perform the sacred rituals. It is one of the few festivals that emphasises environmental purity and gratitude towards nature.

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