For the people of Bihar, Chhath Puja 2024 is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful link to their roots. The love and reverence they hold for this festival are unmatched. For anyone living away from their roots, mentioning Chhath Puja brings a rush of emotions. This feeling isn’t unique to regular people; even celebrities feel it deeply. Bollywood actor Sanjay Mishra recently shared his heartfelt memories of Chhath Puja, explaining why today’s celebration feels different from what he remembers.
Sanjay Mishra Gets Emotional Recalling Chhath Puja Memories
Bollywood actor Sanjay Mishra, known for movies like Vadh, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, and Golmaal, recently opened up about his strong connection to Chhath Puja. Born in Darbhanga, Bihar, Mishra recalled this festival’s deep ties with his childhood. In an interview with ‘Digital Commentary,’ Sanjay Mishra said, “Chhath was a big part of my early years,” he shared. “I remember my grandfather holding my hand and taking me to the riverbank, but now, with him gone, that connection feels distant.”
Reflecting on his memories, Mishra added, “My father would wake me up before dawn to participate in the rituals. It used to be so cold then, unlike now.” With many of his family members no longer around, Mishra expressed how Chhath felt different, even though the spirit remained. “There’s nothing to feel sad about; life just changes with time,” he remarked, visibly moved.
How Chhath Puja Instills Family Values and Togetherness
Chhath Puja 2024 is not just a celebration; it’s a way for families to bond over shared traditions and customs. For people from Bihar, the festival holds immense emotional value. Families gather, enduring long journeys in crowded trains to celebrate Chhath together. They clean their homes, prepare the riverbanks, and make offerings to the Sun God, reinforcing a sense of unity and belonging.
Many people leave their urban lives behind to return to their villages for Chhath Puja. They spend days with their loved ones, preparing prasad and participating in rituals. Uncles, aunts, cousins—all come together, often playfully arguing over who gets to carry the offerings. This sense of togetherness, of spending sleepless nights preparing for the early morning rituals, truly makes Chhath Puja a special occasion that strengthens family bonds.
What is Chhath Puja? Important Dates for Chhath 2024
Chhath Puja is a revered four-day festival dedicated to worshipping the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, celebrated with great devotion across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Nepal. This ancient tradition embodies gratitude, purity, and a deep connection to nature and family.
The rituals of Chhath Puja will begin tomorrow, November 5, 2024, with Nahay Khay (Day 1). On this day, devotees will cleanse their homes and start their spiritual journey by preparing simple, pure meals. The second day, Kharna (Day 2), is November 6, 2024. On this day, devotees will fast all day, breaking their fast with offerings like kheer and roti, a time for devotion and personal reflection.
The main celebration is on November 7, 2024, when devotees will observe the Evening Arghya by gathering at riverbanks or water bodies to pray to the setting sun. The festival will conclude on November 8, 2024, with the Morning Arghya—an offering to the rising sun, symbolizing gratitude, renewal, and hope for the coming year. Chhath Puja is a powerful celebration of family, faith, and tradition, uniting people in a profound, shared expression of reverence and joy.
Important Guidelines for Chhath Puja 2024
During Chhath Puja, cleanliness and purity are crucial. Do not touch utensils or Puja items with unclean hands, which may disrupt the fast. Eating only Satvik (pure vegetarian) food throughout the festival is also essential. Additionally, reusing previously used utensils for the Puja is strictly prohibited.
