surya-bhagawan
Surya Shashti is the festival dedicated to Surya Bhagawan (Sun God). In 2025, Surya Shashti date is October 27. Surya Sashti is celebrated on the sixth day in Shukla Paksha during Kartik Month.
Though Shukla Paksha Sashti and Saptami are dedicated to Sun God, Kartik Shukla Sashti is more auspicious to worship Surya Bhagawan. Ratha Sapthami, Bhanu Saptami and Surya Sashti which comes on Kartik Shukla Sashti (Dala Chat) are other main festivals dedicated to Surya Bhagawan.
During the festival of Surya Sashti, devotees start worshipping Surya Bhagawan before theSunrise. Performers of Surya Shashti Vrata keep fasting on the day and take meal after the puja completes.
Aditya Hrudayam and other Surya Stotras or prayers are recited during the observance of Surya Sashti.
Surya Sashti is celebrated with utmost festivity in Surya Bhagawan temple at Konark in Orissa, Arasuvilli Surya Devalayam in Andhra Pradesh and Sun Temple at Modhera in Gujarat.
Date and Observance
- Observation Date: Chhath Puja is celebrated on the sixth day of the lunar month of Kartika (usually October or November)
- Specific Date for 2025: 27 October 2025
Significance
- Deification of Surya and Chhathi Maiya: The festival honors Surya, the Sun God, and Chhathi Maiya, the sixth form of Prakriti and Surya’s sister. Chhathi Maiya is believed to grant children long life and good health by shielding them from illnesses and diseases.
Rituals and Practices
- Three Nights and Four Days: The rituals are observed over three nights and four days. Key practices include:
- Holy Bathing: Taking a dip in rivers or ponds to purify oneself.
- Abstaining from Water and Food: Observing a fast or partial fasting during certain periods.
- Standing in Water: Devotees often stand in water for long durations while offering prayers.
- Offerings to Sun: Offering Arghya (prayer offerings) and other items like fruits, flowers, and sweets to the rising and setting sun.
Historical Significance
- Mention in Epics: The festival is mentioned in both major Indian epics—Ramayana and Mahabharata. In Ramayana, it was performed by Sita after their return to Ayodhya, leading to blessings with sons Lava and Kusha. In Mahabharata, Kunti observed this puja which led to her conception of Karna, who was born out of her devotion to Surya.
Chhath Puja emphasizes spiritual renewal through its rituals and practices, fostering community bonding among devotees celebrating together across various regions where the festival is prominent. It is also noted for being one of the most eco-friendly religious festivals due to its minimal environmental impact.