Chhath Puja in Bihar!!

 Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and Chhathi Maiya (the goddess of fertility and abundance), is celebrated with immense fervor and devotion in various parts of India, particularly in Bihar. Among the many places where this festival is celebrated, Munger, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, stands out as a vibrant hub of Chhath festivities. The festival usually falls in October or November and spans four days, during which devotees engage in rigorous rituals, fasting, and communal celebrations.

Historical Significance of Munger

Munger holds a unique place in the cultural tapestry of Bihar. Historically known as a pilgrimage site, it has many temples and sacred locations. The city is home to the revered Brahmapur Ghat on the banks of the Ganges, where a significant number of devotees gather during Chhath. This ghat is believed to be a spiritual place where offerings made to the Sun God are especially auspicious.

Rituals and Practices

Chhath Puja is marked by a series of rituals that are both strenuous and deeply spiritual. The festival spans four days:

Nahay Khay: The first day involves purification rituals where devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges, followed by a sargi meal prepared by the mother or female family members. This meal often includes fruits, nuts, and other vegetarian delicacies.

Kharna: On the second day, devotees fast until sunset. In the evening, they prepare offerings, including kheer (a rice pudding), which is shared among family and friends. After the evening prayers, devotees break their fast.

Sandhya Arghya: The third day is dedicated to offering prayers to the setting sun. Devotees prepare a basket filled with sweets, fruits, and other offerings, which they present to Surya. The ambiance around the ghats in Munger transforms into a sea of lights and colors as devotees gather to perform the rituals.

Usha Arghya: The final day involves offering prayers to the rising sun. Devotees, dressed in traditional attire, gather at the banks of the Ganges before dawn to present their final offerings. This ritual marks the culmination of the puja, and the devotees break their fast after completing the rituals.

Chhath Puja in Munger is not merely a religious observance; it is a community celebration that fosters unity and camaraderie among residents. The festival brings together people from different backgrounds, transcending social and economic barriers. Streets are adorned with decorations, and local markets bustle with activity as people shop for traditional materials and offerings.

The collective enthusiasm is evident in the songs and folk music sung during the celebrations, reflecting the local culture and traditions. Women, in particular, play a prominent role, as they lead the rituals, showcasing their dedication and spirit.

Central to the culinary traditions of Chhath is the thekua, a sweet prepared as an offering to the Sun God. The process of making thekua becomes a familial affair, where multiple generations come together in the kitchen. Ingredients like wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee are mixed and kneaded into a dough, which is then shaped and fried until golden brown.

The aroma of freshly made thekuas wafting through the house signifies the warmth of the festival. Families often prepare large batches, which are not only used in the rituals but also shared among friends and neighbors. This sharing enhances the spirit of community, as it embodies the essence of giving and sharing during this auspicious time.

Bringing Families Together

As Chhath approaches, it becomes customary for friends and family to visit each other’s homes, bringing thekuas and other offerings that they have prepared. This exchange of delicacies symbolizes goodwill and strengthens relationships. Elders often recount stories of their own Chhath experiences, imparting wisdom and traditions to the younger generation.

These visits foster connections, rekindle old friendships, and create lasting memories. The joy of sharing food, laughter, and stories enhances the festive atmosphere and reminds everyone of the importance of family and community bonds during this time.

During our stay in Munger, my father's friend and colleagues visited us and gave us Thekuas. My mom would store them and each of them would taste different. We would cherish this delicacy for about a month after Chhath. 

Embracing Nature and Faith

The rituals of Chhath require participants to pay homage to the natural elements, particularly water and sunlight, as they gather at riverbanks or ghats to perform their prayers. Families come together at these sacred locations, often decorating the area with rows of lights and flowers. The sight of mothers and daughters dressed in traditional attire, performing the rituals, is a beautiful representation of cultural continuity and respect for traditions.