Chhath Puja: Embracing Sustainability Through Ancient Rituals

Introduction

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the people of India, particularly those from Jharkhand, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, have been embodying these principles through their ancient traditions. One such tradition is the Chhath festival, a celebration deeply rooted in their cultural heritage and respect for nature. While many are familiar with the festival of Diwali, known for its lights and the triumph of good over evil, fewer are aware of Chhath, its origins, and the valuable lessons it imparts.

Historical Background

Chhath Puja, one of the oldest festivals, finds its roots in ancient texts like the Rig Veda. This revered festival is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya) and his wife Usha, reflecting gratitude for sustaining life on Earth. Legends abound, with stories of Karna, the son of Surya, Draupadi from the epic Mahabharata, and Sita, who performed Chhath Puja during her exile. These narratives highlight the festival's historical depth and enduring significance

According to historical records, Chhath Puja dates back more than 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest known Hindu festivals. The Rig Veda, which dates back to around 1500 BCE, mentions the worship of the Sun God, further establishing the festival's ancient origins (Muller, 2004).

Rituals and Practices

The Chhath festival spans four days, each filled with rituals symbolizing devotion, purity, and reverence for nature:

Nahay Khay: The first day involves purification through a holy dip in a river or pond. Devotees prepare a traditional meal free from onion and garlic, emphasizing simplicity and purity (Sinha, 2018)

Kharna: On the second day, devotees observe a rigorous day-long fast, breaking it in the evening after performing rituals and offering prayers to the Sun God, Surya (Sinha, 2018).

Sandhya Arghya: The third day marks the offering of Sandhya Arghya (evening offerings) to the setting sun. Devotees gather at riverbanks, perform rituals, and sing devotional songs, expressing gratitude for the day's end and the promise of a new dawn (Sinha, 2018).

Usha Arghya: The final day involves offering prayers to the rising sun, concluding the fast by worshipping Surya and seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and well-being (Sinha, 2018).

These rituals highlight the festival's unique focus on both sunrise and sunset, underscoring the importance of balance and resilience. Just as there cannot be a good day without experiencing the sunset (challenges), life’s rhythm is celebrated in its entirety (Sinha, 2018).

Cultural Significance

Chhath Puja is more than a religious observance; it's a cultural tapestry interwoven with the lives of the people from Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. The festival transcends religious boundaries, fostering unity and community spirit. The collective participation in rituals, from cleaning water bodies to preparing offerings, strengthens social bonds and cultivates a sense of shared purpose (Verma, 2020).

In Bihar alone, more than 30 million people participate in Chhath Puja annually, making it one of the largest public festivals in the region. The festival's inclusive nature brings together people from various backgrounds, promoting social harmony and cohesion (Verma, 2020).

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

What sets Chhath apart is its intrinsic connection to nature and sustainability. The festival promotes environmental stewardship through the use of eco-friendly materials like bamboo baskets and clay lamps, steering clear of plastic and synthetic substances. Additionally, the tradition of cleaning local ponds and rivers before the festival not only prepares the sites for rituals but also contributes to maintaining water quality and supporting aquatic ecosystems (Kumar & Sharma, 2019).

Global Plastic Usage Statistics

• Global Plastic Production: The world produces around 350 million tonnes of plastic waste each year. This has doubled in the last two decades (Geyer et al., 2017).

• Mismanaged Plastic Waste: Around one-quarter of plastic waste is mismanaged, meaning it is not recycled, incinerated, or stored in sealed landfills. This mismanaged waste often ends up polluting the environment (Jambeck et al., 2015).

• Ocean Pollution: Between 1 to 2 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans annually, affecting marine life and ecosystems (Lebreton et al., 2017).

In recent years, growing awareness around the extent and dangers of plastic pollution has paved the way for greater policy intervention. More than 100 countries have already either fully or partially banned single-use plastic bags (Euronews, 2023). At the same time, many are also banning other types of disposable items, such as cutlery and drinks mixing sticks.

Given that packaging accounts for almost 40 percent of the total weight of plastic waste generated worldwide, its reduction and recycling is a priority in the fight against plastic pollution. In a 2022 Ipsos survey of more than 23,000 respondents, 70 percent of people surveyed in 34 countries around the world agreed that there should be international standards banning single-use plastics (Ipsos, 2022).

However, the rise of modernization poses challenges, such as the use of plastic decorations and synthetic offerings. Addressing these issues is vital to preserving the festival's sustainable essence. Communities are increasingly aware of the need to revert to eco-friendly practices to honor the true spirit of Chhath.

Approximately 80% of the materials used during Chhath Puja are biodegradable, reflecting the community's commitment to environmental sustainability. Efforts to revive traditional practices and minimize the environmental impact of the festival are gaining momentum, with several initiatives aimed at promoting eco-friendly alternatives (Kumar & Sharma, 2019).

Modern-Day Practices

While the core rituals remain unchanged, modern adaptations have emerged, blending tradition with contemporary awareness. Efforts to revive and maintain the eco-friendly aspects of Chhath Puja include community initiatives and awareness campaigns. These efforts encourage the use of biodegradable materials and sustainable practices, ensuring that the festival remains both culturally significant and environmentally responsible (Verma, 2020).

Conclusion

The Chhath festival is a poignant reminder of the synergy between tradition and sustainability. By preserving its cultural heritage and eco-friendly practices, we not only honor our past but also contribute to a sustainable future. As we celebrate Chhath Puja, let us embrace its teachings and strive to live in harmony with nature, fostering a legacy of environmental stewardship for generations to come.

References

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