Chhath Parva in Nepal to the Sun God Festival

As the festive echoes of Tihar fade, a profound spiritual energy descends upon Nepal, particularly in the Terai region. The air fills with devotional songs, and riverbanks transform into vibrant hubs of activity. This marks the arrival of Chhath Parva, one of the most ancient and ecologically significant festivals in the Hindu world. Unlike any other celebration, this festival involves direct worship of the Sun God, Surya, without the mediation of priests or idols. It is a beautiful expression of gratitude to the natural forces that sustain life on Earth. This comprehensive guide delves into the heart of Chhath Parva, exploring its 2025 dates, deep-rooted rituals, spiritual meaning, and the best places in Nepal to witness its majestic celebration.

Chhath Parva 2025: Key Dates and Significance

In 2025, Chhath Puja will be observed from October 25th to 28th -

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. The main ritual days, Sandhya Arghya (evening offerings) and Usha Arghya (morning offerings), will center around October 27th -

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. This timing places the festival on the sixth day of the lunar month of Kartik, which is why it is called "Chhath," meaning "sixth" in local dialects -

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The festival's significance is multi-layered:

• Gratitude to the Sun God: The core essence of Chhath is to thank Surya, the sun god, for bestowing the bounties of life, energy, and well-being -
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• Cultural Anchor: For the Nepalese Terai community and the diaspora, Chhath is a powerful symbol of cultural identity, fostering unity and preserving ancient traditions -
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• Spiritual Purification: Devotees believe that the rigorous rituals purify the mind and body, wash away sins, and bring divine positive energy into their lives -
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The Four-Day Rituals of Chhath Parva: A Journey of Discipline and Devotion

Chhath Parva is a four-day Hindu festival -

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 characterized by strict discipline and unwavering faith. Each day has its own set of rituals, meticulously followed by devotees known as parvaitin -

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Day 1: Nahay Khay (The Holy Bath and Meal)

The first day, Nahay Khay, translates to "bath and eat." Devotees begin before sunrise by taking a ritualistic dip in a nearby river or pond, symbolizing the purification of the body and soul -

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. Afterward, they clean their homes and kitchens. The day's meal is a strict vegetarian feast, often consisting of bottle gourd and lentils, cooked on a clay stove using mango wood -

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. This meal is first offered to the deity before the family consumes it, marking the commencement of the sacred period -

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Day 2: Kharna or Lohanda (The Day of Strict Fasting)

The second day, Kharna, involves a stringent fast where devotees abstain from both food and water for the entire day -

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. The day is spent in prayer and preparing the prasada (holy offerings). As evening approaches, they break their fast with a specific meal of kheer (sweet rice pudding), puri (deep-fried bread), and fruits, which is also offered to the sun god -

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. This ritual, known as Rasiaav-roti, symbolizes self-control and deep devotion -

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Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings to the Setting Sun)

Sandhya Arghya is the main day of Chhath Puja and a visually stunning spectacle. Devotees, dressed in traditional attire, gather at riverbanks, ponds, and other water bodies in the evening. They carry beautifully decorated bamboo baskets (soop) filled with offerings like fruits, thekua (a traditional sweet cookie), and sugarcane -

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. Whole families stand waist-deep in water, offering prayers and arghya (water) to the setting sun. The scene is mesmerizing, with thousands of oil lamps (diyas) illuminating the ghats and devotional songs filling the air -

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. The fast continues through the night.

Day 4: Usha Arghya (Morning Offerings to the Rising Sun)

The final day, Usha Arghya, requires devotees to return to the water bodies before dawn. They gather in the darkness, waiting to offer prayers to the rising sun. As the first rays of the sun appear, a wave of euphoria sweeps through the crowd. They offer arghya, pray for the well-being and prosperity of their families, and finally break their 36-hour-long fast -

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. The sanctified prasada is then distributed among family, friends, and the community, fostering a sense of shared blessings and social harmony -

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The Spiritual and Historical Roots of Chhath

The origins of Chhath Parva are steeped in ancient Hindu scriptures and epics, which adds to its profound significance.

• Connection to the Ramayana: It is believed that Lord Rama and Goddess Sita instituted the worship of the Sun God. Upon returning to Ayodhya after their 14-year exile, they observed a fast and performed rituals in honor of Surya, which later evolved into Chhath Puja -
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• Link to the Mahabharata: Several characters from the Mahabharata are associated with sun worship. Karna, the son of the Sun God Surya and Kunti, was known to offer prayers while standing in water -
  
  
  . It is also said that Draupadi and the Pandavas performed the puja to overcome their hardships and reclaim their kingdom 
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Where to Experience Chhath Parva in Nepal

While Chhath is celebrated across Nepal, its most vibrant and traditional observances can be witnessed in the following locations:

• Kathmandu: The capital comes alive during Chhath. The banks of the Bagmati River become a major gathering spot. Rani Pokhari, a historic pond in the heart of the city, is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, attracting thousands of devotees -
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• Janakpur: This ancient city, home to the famous Janaki Temple, is one of the epicenters of Chhath celebrations in Nepal. The Dhanusha Sagar lake and other water bodies are thronged by pilgrims. The city pulsates with cultural programs and folk songs in Maithili and Bhojpuri languages, offering an authentic and immersive experience -
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• Birgunj: Located near the Indian border, Birgunj celebrates Chhath with immense fervor. The Gadhairwa Pokhari and the banks of the Gandak River are bustling with devotees. The cross-border cultural influence is palpable here, making the celebrations particularly grand -
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Chhath Parva: A Festival of Environmental Consciousness and Community

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chhath Parva is its inherent eco-friendliness. The festival promotes a harmonious relationship with nature -

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• Eco-Friendly Practices: All offerings are natural and biodegradable, presented in baskets made of bamboo -
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  . The rituals necessitate and encourage the cleanliness of rivers and ponds, as devotees thoroughly clean the ghats before worship -
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• Community Bonding: Chhath is not a private affair. It brings together entire neighborhoods, transcending social barriers. The collective preparation, singing of devotional songs, and sharing of prasada strengthen community ties and promote social harmony -
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A Traveler's Guide to Witnessing Chhath Parva

If you plan to experience Chhath Parva in Nepal, here are a few tips:

• Respect the Rituals: Observe quietly and respectfully. Avoid interrupting devotees during their prayers.

• Dress Modestly: When visiting the ghats, wear conservative clothing out of respect for the religious nature of the festival.

• Seek Local Guidance: Consider hiring a local guide who can explain the rituals and help you navigate the crowded areas.

• Embrace the Culture: Be open to the spiritual atmosphere. Listening to the Chhath geet (songs) is a deeply moving experience.

Conclusion

Chhath Parva is more than just a festival; it is a profound testament to human gratitude, discipline, and our eternal connection with nature. From the predawn rituals on the riverbanks to the serene offerings made to the rising sun, every moment is imbued with deep faith and cultural pride. As Chhath Puja 2025 approaches from October 25th to 28th, it offers a unique opportunity for both devotees and cultural enthusiasts to witness a celebration that has sustained its purity for millennia. It is a powerful reminder to pause, express gratitude to the natural world, and cherish the timeless traditions that bind communities together in a shared spirit of devotion.