Chhath Puja is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Nepal, where people gather to honour Surya (the Sun God) and his sister, Chhathi Maiya. This Ancient festival, known for its devotion, rituals, and community spirit, spans four days, each day carrying its unique customs and prayers. The first day of the festival is called Nahai Khai, and it sets the tone for the entire event.
On this day, devotees begin their spiritual journey with purification, offering gratitude to the Sun God, and preparing themselves for the more intense rituals that follow in the coming days. But what exactly is Nahai Khai, and why is it so important in the Chhath Puja tradition? Let’s explore this sacred occasion in detail.
What is Nahai Khai?
The term Nahai Khai comes from two words: Nahai, meaning ‘to bathe’ or ‘to cleanse,’ and Khai, meaning ‘to eat.’ Thus, Nahai Khai is a day dedicated to physical and spiritual purification, where devotees prepare themselves for the rituals that will follow.
Nahai Khai marks the beginning of Chhath Puja and usually takes place a day before the main offerings are made to Surya. This is a time when devotees clean their homes, cleanse their bodies, and make offerings of food that are pure, simple, and natural. The day’s rituals symbolize the beginning of a process of spiritual detoxification, where the body and mind are prepared to receive the blessings of the Sun God.
The Rituals of Nahai Khai: Purification and Preparation
- The Ritual Bath: The day begins early in the morning with a ritual bath. Devotees believe that taking a dip in the holy river, lake, or even at home in a special ritual bath can wash away any sins, purifying both the body and soul. This bath is not just a physical cleanse; it also marks the beginning of a period of spiritual cleanliness. People also clean their homes, particularly the area where the worship will take place, ensuring that everything is spotless and prepared for the forthcoming rituals.
- Preparing Food for Offerings: After the purification bath, the next significant step is food preparation. On Nahai Khai, it is customary for the family to cook a special meal. This meal is simple and consists of food made without onion, garlic, or any kind of spices. Common dishes include chana daal (yellow lentils), rice cooked in ghee (clarified butter), and roti or thekua (a special fried sweet). The food is offered to the Sun God, but it is also consumed by the family members as a mark of their spiritual commitment. What makes the food on Nahai Khai special is the purity with which it is prepared. The women devotees who observe Chhath Puja often cook the food with great care, as they believe that any impurity in the food can prevent them from receiving the blessings of Surya and Chhathi Maiya.
- Karma of the Day: Fasting and Simplicity: After eating the specially prepared meal, the devotees begin their fast, which lasts for the next few days. The purpose of fasting is not just to abstain from food but to develop mental clarity and focus. Devotees refrain from consuming salt, spices, and certain foods to maintain their purity. This day is about simplicity, both in food and in action. It is a time to reduce distractions and focus solely on the worship of Surya and Chhathi Maiya.
- Setting Up the Worship Area: A key aspect of Nahai Khai is the preparation of the puja ghar (worship area). The family members, particularly the women, clean the space meticulously, arrange the puja thali (offering tray), and set up sacred items like sugarcane, fruits, and thekua. The area is then decorated with fresh flowers, rangolis (decorative patterns), and other religious symbols. In some households, the Chhath Maiya ka chhat (tent) is also set up outside the home, especially if they plan to conduct the offerings near the riverbank or a pond. It is believed that the natural surroundings will connect the devotees with the divine energies of the Sun and Earth.
The Spiritual Significance of Nahai Khai
The rituals of Nahai Khai are more than just physical acts; they are symbolic gestures that mark the beginning of a deep spiritual journey. This day sets the tone for the entire Chhath Puja and establishes a sense of discipline, devotion, and faith.
- Purification of Body and Mind: The primary focus of Nahai Khai is purification. It is believed that by purifying oneself through rituals like the bath, cleaning the home, and offering simple, pure food, devotees can purify not just their bodies but also their minds. This purification makes them more receptive to the divine energy of Surya and Chhathi Maiya.
- Building Devotion: By preparing for the festival with discipline and reverence, devotees reinforce their devotion to the Sun God. Chhath Puja is not just about rituals; it is about making a spiritual connection. Nahai Khai is the foundation for this connection, where the devotee humbly prepares to honour Surya, the provider of light, energy, and life.
- Community and Family Bonding: Although Nahai Khai is a personal ritual, it also emphasizes family and community unity. The whole family comes together for the rituals, helping each other prepare food, clean the house, and offer prayers. It is also a time when neighbours often come together, share food and bond over shared beliefs. This sense of togetherness is an essential part of Chhath Puja, which has long been celebrated as a community event.
Chhath Puja: A Test of Patience and Perseverance
Nahai Khai is just the beginning, and what follows in the coming days is a test of patience, dedication, and devotion. The fasting continues, and on the next two days, the devotees will make offerings at the river or lake, sing devotional songs, and immerse themselves in the worship of Surya.
However, the day of Nahai Khai serves as a gentle introduction to these demanding rituals. It encourages patience and teaches devotees to accept hardship with a sense of gratitude, knowing that the Sun God will bless them with good health, prosperity, and protection.
Conclusion: First day of Chhath Puja
Nahai Khai is more than just the first day of Chhath Puja. It is a day that marks the beginning of a sacred journey, a journey of purification, humility, and devotion. Through its rituals, this day prepares the devotee not only for the physical demands of the festival but also for the mental and spiritual challenges that come with true worship. It is a day that teaches the importance of simplicity, purity, and the need to offer gratitude to the divine for the blessings of life.
As the Chhath Puja progresses over the next few days, the energy and devotion that began on Nahai Khai will continue to grow, leading to a powerful and profound connection with Surya and Chhathi Maiya. Ultimately, Nahai Khai is a reminder that the path to spiritual fulfilment begins with small, humble steps of devotion and that every moment of purity and gratitude brings the devotee closer to the divine light.
