As the golden rays of the setting sun paint the sky in hues of orange and crimson, millions of devotees across India prepare for one of the most spiritually significant moments of Chhath Puja - the Sandhya Arghya. This third day of the ancient festival marks the culmination of rigorous fasting and devotion to the Sun God.
The Sacred Sunset Offerings
Sandhya Arghya, or the evening offerings to the setting sun, represents the heart of Chhath Puja celebrations. Devotees, known as Vratis, gather at riverbanks, ponds, and other water bodies to offer their prayers as the sun descends below the horizon. The air fills with devotional songs and chants, creating an atmosphere of pure spiritual energy.
Rituals That Connect Heaven and Earth
The rituals begin with Vratis taking a holy dip in the water bodies, followed by the preparation of special offerings in bamboo baskets. The traditional prasad includes:
- Thekua - traditional sweet cookies
- Seasonal fruits, especially sugarcane
- Rice laddoos and other homemade sweets
- Fresh coconut and bananas
As the sun begins its descent, devotees stand waist-deep in water, holding their offerings aloft toward the setting sun. The entire family participates, with women typically leading the rituals while men and children support them in this sacred observance.
Muhurat Timings for Spiritual Perfection
According to astrological calculations, the Sandhya Arghya muhurat holds special significance. The precise timing varies by geographical location but generally falls during the beautiful twilight hours when the sun's energy is considered most receptive to human prayers.
The Science Behind the Tradition
Modern science acknowledges the benefits of sun exposure during sunrise and sunset, when UV radiation is at its lowest. The rituals of Chhath Puja align perfectly with these periods, allowing devotees to absorb the sun's beneficial rays while minimizing harmful effects.
Spiritual Significance of Sandhya Arghya
This ancient practice goes beyond mere ritual worship. It represents:
- Gratitude to Nature: Acknowledging the sun as the source of all life
- Family Bonding: Strengthening familial ties through shared spiritual practices
- Physical and Mental Purification: The rigorous fasting and rituals promote detoxification
- Cultural Continuity: Preserving ancient traditions for future generations
The festival particularly holds special importance in Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal, though its popularity has spread worldwide wherever the diaspora has settled.
A Festival of Faith and Discipline
What makes Chhath Puja unique is the level of discipline and dedication required. Vratis observe nirjala fasts (without water) for over 36 hours, spending most of their time in prayer and preparation. The physical challenges are overcome by spiritual determination, making this one of the most rigorous yet rewarding Hindu festivals.
As darkness falls after the Sandhya Arghya, devotees return home with hearts full of hope and spiritual satisfaction, preparing for the final day's Usha Arghya - the offerings to the rising sun that will complete this beautiful cycle of worship.
