Chhath Puja, one of the oldest festivals of India, will be celebrated this year from Saturday, October 25 to Tuesday, October 28, 2025. This sacred festival holds a special place in the hearts of people in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, and is also observed with devotion in the Tarai region of Nepal.
The festival is dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, and is marked by strict rituals, fasting, and offering arghya (water oblation) to the rising and setting sun. Beyond its rituals, Chhath Puja carries rich legends from Indian epics and mythology, which give this celebration its depth and meaning.
Why Chhath is Celebrated: Stories from Mythology
The Legend of King Priyavrata: The Origin of Chhath
The most ancient story of Chhath Puja is found in the Puranas and is linked to King Priyavrata, the son of the first Manu. The king was childless and deeply unhappy. A great sage advised him to perform a specific yajna (fire-sacrifice) to beget a son. The King's wife, Malini, did conceive, but she gave birth to a stillborn child.
Heartbroken, King Priyavrata was about to give up his own life when a celestial goddess appeared before him. She introduced herself as Devasena, the daughter of Lord Brahma and the protector of all children. She is worshipped as Chhathi Maiya. She touched the lifeless child, who immediately came to life. Overjoyed, the King promised to establish her worship on Earth. Since then, it is believed that Chhathi Maiya blesses childless couples and protects the children of her devotees.
Karna, the Son of the Sun God
One of the most well-known legends is linked to Karna, the great warrior from the Mahabharata. Born to Kunti and Surya, Karna was famous for his bravery and generosity. He was also a devout worshipper of the Sun God and offered arghya every single day.
It is believed that his practice of standing in water and praying to the Sun is the origin of the rituals we see in Chhath Puja today. Devotees still follow this tradition by offering water to the rising and setting sun, just as Karna once did.
Lord Rama and Sita’s Gratitude
Another story comes from the Ramayana. After returning to Ayodhya from exile and defeating Ravana, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita observed a fast and prayed to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
They offered arghya to express their gratitude and seek blessings for peace and happiness. This act is said to have inspired the tradition of Chhath Puja in northern India, where the rituals are seen as a way of giving thanks and seeking well-being.
Draupadi, the Pandavas, and Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja also finds a place in the Mahabharata. During their exile, Draupadi and the Pandavas performed Chhath rituals on the advice of sage Dhaumya. Draupadi fasted and prayed to Surya Dev for the return of their kingdom and the welfare of her family.
Her devotion was rewarded, and the Pandavas eventually regained their kingdom. This story highlights the belief that Chhath Puja can fulfill wishes and bring strength during difficult times.
The Ancient Practice of Sages
In ancient times, Chhath was not only a community festival but also a spiritual practice among sages and priests. They performed the rituals with discipline fasting, meditating, and standing in rivers to pray.
It was believed that such practices purified the body and soul, helping them attain both physical well-being and spiritual enlightenment. Over time, these rituals became part of popular tradition and were embraced by communities across regions.
Who is Chhathi Maiya?
Chhathi Maiya, also known as Devasena or Usha, is a Vedic goddess. She is considered the sister of the Sun God, Surya. While Surya is worshipped as the source of life and energy, Chhathi Maiya is revered as the goddess who bestows longevity, health, and prosperity upon children and protects the family. The festival is a unique celebration of this divine sibling pair.
More Than a Festival: A Tribute to Nature
Chhath Puja is not just about rituals. It is a celebration of life, nature, and gratitude. The Sun is worshipped as the giver of energy, health, and prosperity, while Chhathi Maiya is revered as the protector of children and families.
The legends from Karna’s devotion, to Rama and Sita’s gratitude, to Draupadi’s prayers all remind us of the power of faith, purity, and the bond between humans and the natural world.
Even today, millions of devotees stand in rivers and ponds, fasting and praying with complete devotion, carrying forward this tradition that connects generations. Chhath Puja 2025, like every year, will shine as a symbol of faith, community, and harmony with nature.
