Main day of Chhath Parva observed with argha offering to the setting sun

Dhangadhi: Today marks the main day of Chhath Parva, celebrated with devotion and joy across the country through worship and praise of the Sun God. Traditionally, the festival concludes after offering Argha to the setting sun in the evening, followed by Argha to the rising sun the next morning. The government has declared a public holiday today on the occasion of Chhath.

Chhath Parva is observed from the Chaturthi to Saptami of Kartik Shukla, with devotees maintaining a strict fast on Shukla Shashti while observing purity, discipline, and restraint in food and conduct.

According to mythological and historical beliefs, during the Mahabharata period, the five Pandavas along with Draupadi worshipped the Sun God to ensure their safe return from exile. This incident is believed to have established the tradition of celebrating Chhath Parva. The Surya Purana also mentions that Anusuya, wife of Atri Muni, attained unwavering good fortune and her husband’s love by observing the Chhath fast, further establishing the religious significance of the festival.

The sun is regarded as the main force of life, essential for plants, animals, and humans. Ancient texts and Ayurveda suggest that sunlight has healing properties, and the Samba Purana narrates that Krishna’s son Samba cured leprosy through penance to the Sun God. Devotees believe that observing the Chhath fast can bring relief from sorrow, poverty, and diseases, and offering fruits to the sun ensures the well-being of family and children.

During the festival, devotees take a bath and eat only one meal on Kartik Shukla Chaturthi. On Panchami, they offer kheer (kharna) to Shashthi Mata and receive a small portion of prasad. On the main day of Shashti, they perform the evening Argha offering to the setting sun, conclude the fast by staying awake through the night, and offer Argha to the rising sun on Kartik Shukla Saptami. It is believed that worshipping the sun in this manner prevents skin diseases.

Originally concentrated in the Terai region, Chhath festival has now gained national recognition, with public holidays declared nationwide since BS 2046. In Kailali, the banks of the Mahona and Godavari rivers have been specially decorated in preparation for the festival, with large gatherings of devotees expected this evening and tomorrow morning.