Sandhya Arghya: The Grand Evening Offering
The third day of Chhath Puja, which occurs on Shashthi Tithi, is the principal day of the festival. Referred to as Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering), this day is observed with great splendor, devotion, and a massive crowd assembling along riverbanks and ponds.
Preparation of the Daura and Soop
The morning of Sandhya Arghya is alive with bustling activity. Family members get ready to prepare the iconic Chhath Prasad: ThekuaThis demands immense effort, as it is deep-fried in generous amounts of pure ghee.
The offerings are meticulously arranged in a Daura (a large bamboo basket) and several Soops (winnowing baskets). The assortment comprises Thekua, sugarcane stalks, coconuts, pomelo (daab/gaagar), bananas, apples, and radishes with their leaves.
The Procession to the Ghat
In the late afternoon, the family proceeds toward the designated water body (Ghat). Traditionally, the male head of the family carries the heavy Daura on his bare head, symbolizing submission and devotion to the deity. Folk songs (Chhath Geet) praising Chhathi Maiya resonate throughout the streets.
The Ritual of Offering to the Setting Sun
Upon arriving at the Ghat, the Vrati enters the cold water, typically up to the waist. As the sun starts to set, the Vrati holds the Soop filled with offerings. Family members and fellow devotees pour raw milk and water over the Soop as it is offered to the Sun God.
Once the sun has fully set beneath the horizon, the Vrati comes back to the shore. The family then heads home, safeguarding the Daura for the concluding morning ceremony. The Vrati maintains their waterless fast throughout the night.
The original article text is retained from the provided Chhath Puja collection. This edition includes added navigation, summaries, images, and clearly marked editorial notes.