The third day of the Chhath Mahaparv is dedicated to Sandhya Arghya, when devotees offer water to the setting sun, praying for prosperity, well-being, and the long life of their children. Special prayers are conducted at the ghats for this offering. Offering arghya to the setting sun is considered a symbol of gratitude and balance.
Chhath Sandhya Arghya: Today marks the third and most sacred day of the Chhath Mahaparv, when devotees will offer arghya to the setting sun after observing a 36-hour waterless fast. During this Sandhya Arghya, to be offered between 4:50 PM and 5:41 PM, devotees will pray to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya for the prosperity and well-being of their family and the long life of their children. According to religious beliefs, this arghya is dedicated to Pratyusha, the wife of the Sun God, and is considered a symbol of balance, self-restraint, and gratitude in life.
The Third Day of Chhath Puja
The third day of the Chhath Mahaparv is for Sandhya Arghya, considered the most significant day of this festival. Today, devotees will offer arghya to the setting sun after a 36-hour waterless fast. During this offering, devotees pray to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya for the prosperity and well-being of their family, children, and society. Traditionally, the Chhath fast is primarily observed for the long life of children and the happiness of the family.
According to scriptures, worshipping the Sun during Chhath Puja purifies the body, mind, and soul. The purpose of offering arghya to Surya Dev is to express gratitude towards nature and its elements. This is why devotees gather at the ghats in the evening on this day and offer water to the setting sun.
Why is Arghya Offered to the Setting Sun?
Sandhya Arghya holds special significance in the Chhath Mahaparv. According to religious belief, offering arghya to the setting sun symbolizes balance and humility. This offering is made to express gratitude for the Sun's work throughout the day.
According to mythological tales, Chhathi Maiya is the sister of Surya Dev. The Sandhya Arghya is dedicated to Pratyusha, the wife of the Sun God, who represents the last ray of the sun. This offering symbolizes the acceptance of every high and low in life and the feeling of gratitude. Therefore, devotees complete the puja by offering arghya first to the setting sun and then to the rising sun the next day.
Time and Method of Offering Arghya in Chhath Puja
This year, the Sandhya Arghya for Chhath Puja will be offered between 4:50 PM and 5:41 PM. During this time, devotees will reach the ghats and worship Surya Dev. Before offering arghya, devotees bathe at the ghat and prepare a puja basket containing 'thekua' (a sweet snack), bananas, sugarcane, coconuts, fruits, and lamps.
This waterless fast of the devotees begins on the day of Kharna, when they consume 'prasad' (offering) and then remain without food or water for the next 36 hours. The fast is broken only after offering Usha Arghya the next day, following the Sandhya Arghya.
Rules for Offering Arghya to the Sun
- Use a copper vessel: According to tradition, only a copper vessel should be used when offering arghya to Surya Dev.
- Face East: While offering Sandhya Arghya, devotees should always face the East direction.
- Add fragrant substances to the water: It is considered auspicious to add red sandalwood, vermillion (sindoor), and red flowers to the arghya water.
- Chant Surya Mantra: While offering arghya, one should chant the mantra "Om Suryaya Namah."
- Circumambulate three times: After offering arghya, it is customary to circumambulate three times while facing Surya Dev.
- Dispose of water correctly: The arghya water should not fall on one's feet. It should be poured into a pot or on the soil.
By following these rules, devotees receive the blessings of Surya Dev and gain energy, prosperity, and good health in their lives.
Religious Significance of Sandhya Arghya
In Chhath Puja, Sandhya Arghya is not merely a ritual but also a symbol of devotion and surrender. This offering is dedicated to Pratyusha, the wife of Surya Dev, who is considered a symbol of stability and self-restraint in life.
According to religious belief, offering arghya to the setting sun removes obstacles from a person's life and protects their children. This arghya, offered with the last ray of the sun, conveys a message of self-power and gratitude.
Scientific Perspective of Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is considered not only a religious ritual but also highly beneficial from a scientific perspective. While offering arghya, the sun's rays fall on the eyes and body through the stream of water, which increases Vitamin D levels in the body and provides natural energy to the skin.
Furthermore, standing in a river or pond and offering water towards the sun helps stabilize and calm the mind. It is also a practice of meditation and concentration, leading to improved mental health.
Fast for Family Prosperity and Longevity of Children
The primary purpose of the Chhath fast is to pray for the long life of children and the prosperity and well-being of the family. This fast is observed by both women and men with equal devotion. During the Sandhya Arghya, devotees pray to Surya Dev for lasting happiness in their homes and freedom from all troubles.
On this day, devotees keep away from any negative emotions or disputes. Their entire focus is on faith, purity, and devotion.
