Understanding the Arghya to the Dying Sun in Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja, an important cultural event in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh and parts of Nepal, is distinguished by the practice of offering arghya to the sun at both sunrise and sunset. In Hinduism, Surya is regarded as a tangible deity whose rays deliver light, heat and vital energy to all living beings. The evening arghya symbolizes a profound thankfulness for these gifts. The celebration, known alternatively as Surya Shashthi, Prithvi Shashthi, or Dala Chhath, is observed on the sixth lunar day of Kartik’s bright fortnight. Devotees observe strict fasts and perform elaborate worship of Chhathi Maiya along with Surya. The third day of the festival features the offering to the sinking sun, while the next day’s morning ritual presents arghya to the rising sun, thereby concluding the fast. According to religious belief, worship of Chhathi Maiya brings happiness, prosperity and blessings for offspring. The festival also highlights reverence for nature; historically, societies reliant on agriculture depended on sunlight for crop growth, seasonal changes and the water cycle, making the sun’s gratitude an integral part of the celebration.