Chhath Puja 2026 will commence on November 13 and conclude on November 16, featuring key rituals such as Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya.
Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya, is set to begin in 2026 on November 13. As devotees prepare for this four-day celebration, there has been some confusion regarding the starting date, with many wondering if it will kick off on November 12 or 13.
Confirmed details indicate that Chhath Puja will officially start on Friday, November 13, and will conclude on Monday, November 16. The main rituals, including Sandhya Arghya, will be observed on November 15.
The festival’s timeline is as follows: it begins with Nahay Khay, followed by Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya. Importantly, November 12 is not the first day of the celebration.
On November 13, the festival commences with Nahay Khay, during which devotees take a ritual bath and prepare traditional foods. The following day, November 14, is marked by Lohanda and Kharna, where devotees observe a day-long fast and perform evening rituals.
November 15 is dedicated to Sandhya Arghya, a crucial moment when offerings are made to the setting Sun. This is followed by Usha Arghya on November 16, when devotees pray to the rising Sun and conclude their fast.
Both Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya are vital components of Chhath Puja, allowing devotees to express their gratitude to Surya Dev for sustaining life and to pray for the health, happiness, and prosperity of their families.
The significance of Chhath Puja extends beyond rituals; it is a time for devotion and community. The festival is especially popular in regions such as Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. During this period, devotees adhere to strict fasting, prepare traditional offerings, and gather at rivers, ponds, and other water bodies to perform their prayers.
Chhath Puja will conclude on November 16, following Usha Arghya. After offering prayers to the rising Sun, devotees will break their fast through the Parana ritual.
In summary, Chhath Puja 2026 will commence on November 13 and will run until November 16, featuring essential rituals that highlight the festival’s deep cultural and spiritual significance. The festival’s observance is a testament to the devotion of its participants, as they engage in practices that honor the Sun and seek blessings for their families.
For further details, refer to The Sunday Guardian.