The grand festival of Chhath Puja 2026 is being observed with immolation, deep spirituality, and immense fervor across Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and various other regions of India. The sacred four-day celebration, which officially commenced on November 13, will culminate on Monday, November 16, as devotees gather at water bodies to offer prayers to the rising Sun God. Today, Sunday, November 15, marks the third and most prominent day of Chhath Mahaparv, universally recognized as Sandhya Arghya. On this holy occasion, fasting devotees and their families assemble at riverbanks, lakes, and specially decorated ghats to present ritual offerings to the setting Sun while seeking blessings for family health, peace, and longevity.
Spiritual Reverence Dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya
Chhath Puja is entirely devoted to the worship of the Sun God (Surya Dev) and Chhathi Maiya. In ancient texts and traditions, the festival is also referred to as Surya Shashthi, Kartik Chhath, and Chhath Mahaparv. While its heartland remains in eastern India, the festival is now celebrated globally and in urban centers across the country. Throughout the four days, devotees observe extreme purity, physical discipline, and spiritual dedication. The rituals demand absolute cleanliness in food preparation, living spaces, and personal conduct.
Complete Timeline for Chhath Puja 2026
Every single day of the four-day festival carries distinct religious customs and traditional practices. The detailed timeline for the 2026 celebrations includes
- November 13, Friday (Nahay Khay): The festival began with the purification ritual of Nahay Khay. Fasting devotees took a holy dip in rivers or water bodies, thoroughly cleaned their homes, and prepared a simple satvik meal consisting of bottle gourd curry and rice under strict hygienic conditions.
- November 14, Saturday (Kharna): On the second day, devotees observed a whole-day fast which ended after sunset with a sacred offering of jaggery-based kheer, flatbreads, and fruits. Following the consumption of Kharna prasad, devotees embarked on an intense 36-hour continuous fast without food or water (nirjala fast).
- November 15, Sunday (Sandhya Arghya): The third day stands as the central event of Chhath Mahaparv. In the evening, devotees gather at riverbanks and ponds to offer Sandhya Arghya to the setting Sun. Bamboo baskets (soop) containing traditional sweets like thekua, sugarcane, and seasonal fruits are offered with deep devotion.
- November 16, Monday (Usha Arghya and Parana): The festival concludes at dawn when devotees wade into water to offer Usha Arghya to the rising Sun. After concluding the morning prayers, worshippers complete their 36-hour fast through the ritual of Parana by sharing prasad with family and friends.
City-Wise Timings for Evening and Morning Arghya
Astronomical timings of sunset and sunrise dictate the exact moments for offering prayers during Chhath Puja. According to Drik Panchang, the specific timings for Sandhya Arghya on November 15 and Usha Arghya on November 16 across major cities are as follows
- Patna: Sandhya Arghya is scheduled for 5:00 PM on November 15, followed by Usha Arghya at 6:07 AM on November 16.
- New Delhi: Sandhya Arghya takes place at 5:27 PM on November 15, while Usha Arghya is set for 6:44 AM on November 16.
- Kolkata: Sandhya Arghya timing is recorded around 4:53 PM on November 15.
Heartfelt Wishes and Messages to Share with Loved Ones
Mark this auspicious occasion by sharing these thoughtful messages, greetings, and blessings with your relatives and friends
- Wishing you and your loved ones a very blessed Chhath Puja. May Chhathi Maiya shower your home with good health, happiness, and prosperity.
- May the setting and rising Sun brighten your path with divine energy, positivity, and success. Happy Chhath Puja 2026!
- On this holy occasion, may Surya Dev bestow upon you strength, wisdom, and eternal peace. Warm greetings on Chhath Mahaparv!
- May your sincere devotion bring boundless blessings and harmony into your life. Have a joyous and fulfilling Chhath Puja.
- May every riverbank shine with faith and every household glow with happiness. Sending warm wishes on this sacred festival.
- May Chhathi Maiya fulfill your wishes and keep your family protected and prosperous. Happy Chhath Puja to all!
