Four-Day Chhath Festival Begins With Nahay-Khay
The four-day Chhath festival has begun today with Nahay-Khay, the first day of the celebrations. Across Bihar, devotees are observing the occasion with traditional rituals and preparations. The festival is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
Chhath begins with Nahay-Khay, a day that sets the tone for the rituals to follow. The day begins with a holy bath and the cleaning of homes. Special care is taken to maintain cleanliness and purity as preparations get underway.
A traditional meal is prepared, consisting of rice, kaddu ki sabzi, or pumpkin curry, and chana dal. The food is first offered to Chhathi Maiya. The Chhath vrati then partake in the prasad, followed by other family members.
With this meal, the four-day ritual of Chhath gets underway. From Nahay-Khay to the final morning Arghya, every ritual reflects faith, discipline and devotion. Chhath is also a celebration of nature and the life-giving energy of the Sun.
