According to the Vedic calendar, today—November 14th—marks the second day of the grand festival of Chhath (Chhath Puja). This second day of the festival, which is deeply rooted in folk faith, is known as 'Kharna'. Kharna holds special significance in Hinduism; it marks the beginning of a rigorous 36-hour fast, observed without even a drop of water (*nirjala*). According to religious belief, observing the Chhath fast with a sincere heart brings the blessing of children and ensures their long life. Furthermore, it invites the grace of Chhathi Maiya (the presiding deity of the festival) and the Sun God (Surya Dev).

The *prasad* (offering) for Kharna is prepared on a new earthen stove. On the evening of Kharna, a dish made of jaggery and rice (*gur ki kheer*) along with wheat-flour *rotis* (flatbreads) is offered on a banana leaf and consumed. This *prasad* is also distributed among others. In this article, let us explore in detail what takes place on the second day of Chhath Puja.

Kharna 2026
According to the Vedic calendar, Kharna falls today, November 14th.
Beginning of *Panchami Tithi*: November 13th at 8:42 PM
Conclusion of *Panchami Tithi*: November 14th at 11:23 PM

What happens on the day of Kharna?
The fast begins in the morning after a ritual bath. No food or water is consumed until sunset.
In the evening, the *prasad* for Kharna is prepared on a new earthen stove. This includes *kheer* made from fresh rice, jaggery, and milk, along with *rotis* brushed with *ghee* (clarified butter). Bananas and radishes are also offered.

After sunset, those observing the fast place this *prasad* on a banana leaf, perform a formal ritual worship of Chhathi Maiya and the Sun God, and offer the food to them.
Following this, the *prasad* is consumed while sitting in a quiet, peaceful place. For your information, the 36-hour *nirjala* (waterless) fast begins after consuming the *prasad* of *Kharna*. This fast concludes on the final day of Chhath Puja, following the offering of *arghya* (libation) to the rising sun. Thereafter, the *prasad* of Chhath Puja is distributed among the people.

Avoid these mistakes on the day of *Kharna*:
Ensure special attention is paid to cleanliness within the home on the day of *Kharna*. Most importantly, do not taste any of the food while preparing the *prasad*. Furthermore, it is strictly forbidden to touch any ritual items or *puja* materials with unwashed or unclean hands.

Additionally, do not consume garlic, onions, or any form of *tamasic* (impure/stimulating) food on the day of *Kharna*. Other family members should also consume only *satvic* (pure/wholesome) food.
Prepare the *Kharna prasad* using new utensils and a new earthen stove; do not use vessels that are part of your daily routine kitchenware.

Refrain from engaging in arguments or using harsh, abusive language with anyone in the household.
The *Kharna* fast is observed throughout the day without consuming any water; the *prasad* is consumed only in the evening, after sunset, following the performance of the prescribed *puja* rituals.

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