New Delhi, Nov 13: The four-day Chhath Puja festival began on Friday with the traditional ritual of ‘Nahay Khay’, marking the start of one of the most sacred Hindu festivals dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.

The first day of the festival is observed with rituals centred on cleanliness, purity and devotion. Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath in rivers, ponds or at home and thoroughly clean their houses and kitchens before beginning the religious observances.

A special satvik meal is prepared on this occasion. Traditionally, devotees consume boiled rice, chana dal and kaddu (pumpkin) curry. Strict attention is paid to cleanliness and purity while preparing the food, as Nahay Khay marks the beginning of the festival's rigorous rituals.

Chhath Puja has its roots in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh but is now celebrated with immense devotion across several parts of the country. Observed after Diwali and Bhai Dooj, the festival holds special significance for families seeking the blessings of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.

This year, the celebrations will continue from November 13 to November 16. The four main rituals are Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya. The main worship takes place on the sixth day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Kartik, when devotees offer prayers to the setting and rising Sun.

Chhath Puja is also known as Surya Shashthi, Chhath, Chhathi, Chhath Parv, Dala Puja and Dala Chhath. The festival is particularly associated with the well-being of children, the longevity of family members and household prosperity.

During the four-day observance, devotees, particularly women, undertake rigorous fasting and follow prescribed rituals with deep faith. They pray for the long life, good health and bright future of their children while seeking happiness, peace and prosperity for their families.

According to religious beliefs, worshipping the Sun God during Kartik brings health, happiness and success. The festival also holds special significance because of its association with Shashthi Tithi, which is believed to bring blessings for children's longevity and well-being.

The most distinctive feature of Chhath Puja is the offering of Arghya to the Sun God, first at sunset and then at sunrise. Through these rituals, devotees express gratitude to the Sun, regarded as the source of life and energy, and seek divine blessings for their families.

With Nahay Khay marking the beginning of the celebrations, devotees have started observing the festival with discipline, devotion and an emphasis on purity.