- By Prerna Targhotra
- Thu, 16 Nov 2023 01:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Chhath Puja 2023 Day 1: The festival of Chhath Puja is of utmost significant in the country and is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm. It is predominantly celebrated in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal and the Nepalese provinces of Koshi, Madhesh and Lumbini. The festival is dedicated to God's Sun and is usually observed by women folks to seek blessings for their family’s happiness and prosperity. This year, the celebrations of Chhath Puja will begin on November 17 with Nahay Khay.
Chhath Puja 2023 Day 1: Nahay Khay
The first day of Chhath Puja is celebrated as Nahay Khay and will be observed on November 17. According to Drik Panchang, the sunrise time on November 17 is 05:53 AM and sunset will be at 06:13 PM.
Nahay Khay: Significance
The first day of Chhath Puja is referred to as ‘Nahay Khay’, the day on which people take a holy dip in water bodies and women who observe fast consume only a single meal throughout the day. The puja is mainly observed in Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh and is considered one of the most important festivals in these states.
Chhath Puja celebrations go for four consecutive days (Image Credits: Canva)
Nahay Khay: Celebrations
On the first day of Chhath Puja, people who observe fast wake up early in the morning and worship Lord Surya or God Sun before consuming any meals. The devotees observing fast dress up in clean clothes, prepare bhog or prasad for the deity, and offer it to the Sun God. Apart from this, devotees should consume chana dal and kadoo bhaat as prasad to open their fasts.
Nahay Khay: Rituals
- The most important thing during this festival is one must maintain hygiene during all four days.
- Before taking a bath, avoid eating anything. After bathing, apply vermillion and begin prasad preparation.
- Rock salt should be used in the making of prasad, such as rice, beans, and vegetables.
- Onion, ginger, and garlic should not be included in cooking ingredients, and they must be stored apart from other foods.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)