Through these rituals, Singh underscores the profound connection between the Chhath festival and water—an element that is central to the lives of the communities who observe it
In Chhath: Worshipping the Sun, Celebrating Nature, designer-turned-author Ekisha Singh offers a detailed and insightful exploration of the Chhath Puja, a four-day festival that celebrates the Sun and its vital role in sustaining life on Earth. The festival, which has origins in Bihar, has seen a rise in popularity beyond its geographical roots, attracting curiosity from both celebrants and non-celebrants alike. Singh’s debut book serves as an accessible guide to understanding the rituals, symbolism, and cultural significance of Chhath Puja, while drawing connections to both mythology and the practicality of nature’s elements.
Chhath Puja is a unique celebration, dedicated to the Sun god and his sister, Mother Chhati (or Shashti). The festival is marked by a series of elaborate rituals, including fasting, purification, and prayer, all performed with an intention of seeking the blessings of the Sun and water for the well-being and prosperity of the family. While the rituals are not gender-specific, women are traditionally the primary participants, known as ‘vratis’. These individuals observe a strict set of customs over four days, which culminate in the offering of prayers to the setting and rising Sun on the final two days.
Singh’s book delves into the origins and deep significance of this festival. Drawing from ancient texts like the Rig Veda, she explains the worship of the Sun as a reverence for the “soul of the world” and the “creator of the universe.” According to prominent figures such as philosopher S. Radhakrishnan and spiritual leader Sri Aurobindo, the Sun is seen not only as a life-giver but also as a symbol of wisdom, a role encapsulated in the Gayatri Mantra. Singh suggests that the act of worshipping the setting Sun symbolizes the cyclical nature of life, encapsulated in the belief that “the one who sets is destined to rise.” This ties the festival to a broader spiritual understanding of life’s ups and downs, where hope lies in renewal and resurgence.
The book meticulously outlines the rituals performed during Chhath Puja, emphasizing both their spiritual and practical aspects. The first day, Nahay Khay, is a cleansing ritual during which the devotee consumes a simple meal of rice, lentils, and bottle gourd. The second day, Kharna, is marked by an intense fast, where the devotee prepares the ceremonial prasad—roti and kheer—which is offered to the Sun god. This day culminates with the breaking of the fast by consuming the prasad, typically accompanied by a banana shared with family and friends.
On the third day, the ritual reaches its pinnacle with the Sandhya Araghya, the evening offerings to the setting Sun. The devotee, having fasted without food or water, prepares thekua—a sweet offering—while also arranging fruits and vegetables for the final prayers. The concluding ritual on the fourth day is performed at dawn, marking the end of the puja. The distribution of prasad, including thekua and fresh seasonal crops, represents both the culmination of devotion and a celebration of the harvest.
Through these rituals, Singh underscores the profound connection between the Chhath festival and water—an element that is central to the lives of the communities who observe it. Water, in this context, symbolizes both purification and sustenance. The festival’s emphasis on fresh, seasonal crops further ties it to agricultural traditions, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between nature’s forces and human survival.
Singh’s storytelling prowess and her background in graphic design bring a unique depth to the book. Her art explores the historical evolution of Sun worship, combining mythological narratives with local folklore. This blend of the spiritual and the practical provides readers with a broader understanding of how the Chhath festival has not only shaped the cultural identity of the people who celebrate it but has also contributed to a larger dialogue about the reverence for nature.
Chhath: Worshipping the Sun, Celebrating Nature is a beautiful introduction to an ancient festival that holds rich meaning for those who observe it. Through her engaging writing, Singh captures the essence of this sacred tradition and explains its importance in the modern world. The book will appeal to anyone curious about India’s diverse cultural practices, as well as to those who wish to understand the profound connection between faith, nature, and humanity.
