The second day of the auspicious Chhath Puja 2025, known as Kharna, is being observed today. This significant phase of the four-day festival, which began on October 25 and concludes on October 28, is celebrated with immense devotion, particularly in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Chhath Puja is dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, seeking blessings for prosperity, well-being, and longevity for family members.
The Spiritual Significance of Kharna
Kharna, literally meaning 'purity,' is a day of profound spiritual cleansing for the devotees, while it's believed that on this day, Chhathi Maiya, the goddess of progeny and well-being, enters the homes of the devotees, bestowing happiness, peace, and prosperity. The day symbolizes complete devotion and surrender to the divine. Fasting on Kharna isn't merely a physical act but a spiritual journey to purify the body and mind, freeing them from worldly desires and focusing solely on the divine. It's believed that observing the rituals with utmost sincerity on this day fulfills one's wishes and brings immense joy to the family.
Kharna Puja Rituals and Prasad
After the puja, the devotee first partakes in this holy prasad, breaking their day-long fast. Following this, the prasad is distributed among family members, friends, and relatives, while it's important to note that once the devotee consumes this prasad, the arduous 36-hour nirjala vrat officially begins. This extended fast continues until the next evening's arghya (offering) to the setting sun and concludes with the arghya to the rising sun on the subsequent morning.
On Kharna, devotees undertake a rigorous fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining completely from both food and water (nirjala vrat). In the evening, after taking a purifying bath and donning clean clothes, they perform puja (worship). A special prasad (offering) is prepared for this occasion: jaggery and rice kheer, often called 'rasiyaav,' and roti or puri, cooked on a traditional mud stove using mango wood, while this method of cooking is considered highly sacred and pure.
Chhath Puja Day 2: Preparations and Traditions
Kharna signifies the escalating fervor and sanctity of Chhath Puja. From this day onward, the air is filled with devotional Chhath songs, creating an atmosphere of deep spiritual energy throughout households. All family members actively participate in preparing the prasad and other puja essentials. The strict abstinence from food and water post-Kharna prasad underscores the devotees' unwavering faith and immense mental fortitude. This period of fasting isn't just a physical challenge but a testament to spiritual strength. And resilience, with devotees relying solely on water for the next two days until the final offerings.
Mantras for Chhath Puja Day 2
On the auspicious occasion of Kharna, devotees chant specific mantras to invoke the blessings of Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.Om Hreem Shashthidevyai Swaha
Om Hreem Hreem Suryay Namah
Om Aehi Surya Sahastransho Tejo Rashi Jagatpate. Anukampay Maam Bhaktya Grihanarghya Divakarah.
These powerful mantras are dedicated to the glory of the Sun God and the benevolence of Chhathi Maiya. Chanting them is believed to multiply the benefits of the fast, while kharna, That's why, stands as a crucial milestone in the spiritual journey of Chhath Puja, preparing devotees for the rigorous observances that lie ahead.
