Chhath Puja 2026: Four Days from Nahay Khay to Usha Arghya

The New Delhi calendar lists Nahay Khay on November 13, Kharna on November 14, Sandhya Arghya on November 15, and Usha Arghya on November 16, 2026. Ghat arrangements, sunrise and sunset, and local customs affect preparation and timing; check local arrangements.

Chhath is an observance of gratitude to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. It is especially important in communities including Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, and diaspora families observe it around the world.

Nahay Khay begins with preparation of the home and food and a resolve to observe purity. On Kharna, after a day’s fast, prasad is offered in the evening and the observance continues. Food and rules vary by family tradition.

On the third day, devotees and families offer arghya to the setting sun at a waterbody or designated ghat. On the fourth, they offer Usha Arghya to the rising sun, followed by parana according to family custom. At public ghats, follow organisers’ directions and safety arrangements.

Thekua, fruit, and other prasad are prepared in many families, with ingredients and methods varying by region. Household members and communities work together to prepare and carry offerings. Everyone can help keep the area clean, provide drinking water, and dispose of waste responsibly.

At a crowded ghat, agree on a meeting point with children and older relatives, keep away from slippery edges, and listen to local volunteers. Devotion and public safety belong together.

Some Chhath fasts are very demanding. Never pressure anyone to fast. If you have a health condition, are pregnant, take regular medication, or have another concern, consult a clinician before fasting; there are ways to join prayer and service without a strict fast.

Families may say a prayer or read the Surya Chalisa or a Surya hymn while offering arghya. Follow your tradition and comfort; there is no single mandatory reading list for every family.