Chhath Puja: Unveiling the Mythological Tapestry
Chhath Puja, the vibrant and spiritually charged festival, holds a special place in the hearts of Biharis and has gained recognition far beyond the borders of Bihar. Chhath Puja, a cultural cornerstone in Bihar, intertwines mythological sagas with profound spiritual symbolism. This festival venerates the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, evoking tales that resonate through generations. Let’s embark on a journey through the rich narratives and deeper significance of Chhath Puja.
Mythological Story:
According to the legend, King Priyavrat, son of Manu Swayambhuva, had no children. When Maharishi Kashyap performed the yagya, Queen Malini gave birth to a son but the child was born dead. Then Mother Shashthi appeared and introduced herself and blessed the dead child and placed her hand on it, due to which he came alive. The king was very happy with this grace of the goddess and he worshiped Shashthi Devi. This divine intervention marked the genesis of Chhath Puja, as a token of gratitude towards the goddess.
It is an ancient Vedic festival that traces its roots to the Mahabharata. The festival is celebrated twice a year during the Chaitra Shukla Shashthi and Kartik Shukla Shashthi, post-Diwali.
Chhathi Maiya
