Chhath Puja Day 1: All You Need To Know About Nahay Khay

Chhath Puja is also kwn by or names, such as Pratihara, Daala Chhath, Chhathi, and Surya Shashthi. It is an important annual Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Surya, Sun God, and observed for four days. first day of Chhath Puja is kwn as Nahay Khay, this year first day of Chhath Puja falls on vember 5, Tuesday i.e. today. 

Significance of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja holds deep significance in Hindu culture. Devotees believe that worshipping sun, source of life and energy can bring prosperity and health. festival offers devotees an opportunity to express gratitude to sun for its life-sustaining power.

What happens on Nahay Khay?

On Nahay Khay, sunrise is at 6:36 a.m., and sunset is at 5:40 p.m., according to Drik Panchang. Devotees begin festival with a ritualistic bath and enjoy a special Chhath Puja menu.

Rules for observing Nahay Khay

1. Thorough cleaning: Clean entire house carefully as a preparatory ritual.
2. Early rising and bathing: Devotees/Women observing Chhath fast should wake up before auspicious Shubh Muhurat in morning and take a purifying bath.
3. Appropriate attire: Wear clean clos, avoiding anything torn.
4. Offerings to Lord Surya: Before eating, offer water and food to Lord Surya as a mark of respect.
5. Sattvik food: Prepare only Sattvik food, a pure and light vegetarian fare and avoid ingredients like onion and garlic.
6. Traditional dishes which are considered auspicious during Nahay Khay include pumpkin, gourd, gram dal, and rice, 
7. Order of eating: Devotees/Women on Chhath fast should eat first after offering prepared food to Lord Surya; only n can rest of family partake.