The traditional Hindu festival of Chhath, observed by people all over Bihar, Jharkhand and parts of Uttar Pradesh, takes place after the festival of _____

The correct answer is Diwali.

Key Points

• Chhath Puja is celebrated six days after the festival of Diwali.
• The festival is primarily observed in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, as well as in Nepal.
• Chhath Puja is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) and his wife Usha to thank them for bestowing life on earth and to request the granting of certain wishes.
• It involves rituals such as holy bathing, fasting, standing in water for long periods, and offering prasad (prayer offerings).

Additional Information

• Significance of Chhath Puja
  • Chhath Puja is one of the oldest festivals dedicated to the Sun God, dating back to ancient Vedic times.
  • The festival signifies the importance of solar energy in sustaining life on earth.
• Rituals and Practices
  • The rituals are rigorous and include fasting, abstaining from drinking water, standing in water, and offering arghya to the setting and rising sun.
  • Devotees also prepare a special prasad, including thekua, a type of sweet dish made from wheat flour.
• Environmental Aspect
  • Chhath Puja emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and environmental preservation, with devotees often cleaning riverbanks and water bodies.
• Global Observance
  • Though primarily observed in India and Nepal, Chhath Puja has gained popularity among the Indian diaspora in various countries including the United States, United Kingdom, and Mauritius.