Kharna Puja Rituals and Rules: Kharna holds special significance within the four-day observance of the Chhath festival. It is performed on the second day—the *Panchami* (fifth day) of the *Kartik Shukla Paksha* (the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Kartik). On this day, those observing the fast (*vratis*) remain without food or water (*nirjala*) from morning until evening. After sunset, they worship the Sun God (*Surya Dev*) and Chhathi Maiya. Offerings (*bhog*) consisting of *gur ki kheer* (jaggery-based rice pudding), *roti* (flatbread), and seasonal fruits are presented. The *vrati* is the first to partake in the *prasad* after the worship. This also marks the beginning of a rigorous, approximately 36-hour-long fast without food or water.

Kharna Puja Procedure

1. Morning Bath and Taking the Vow (*Sankalp*)
On the day of Kharna, those observing the fast wake up early, bathe, and put on clean clothes. They then contemplate the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya and take a formal vow (*sankalp*) to observe the fast. No food or water is consumed until the evening.

2. Preparing the *Prasad*
The house and kitchen are thoroughly cleaned on the day of Kharna. According to tradition, the *prasad* is prepared on an earthen stove (*chulha*) using mango wood as fuel. Many families use a new stove and new cooking vessels for this purpose.

3. Preparing *Gur ki Kheer* and *Roti*
The *prasad* for Kharna primarily consists of *gur ki kheer* and *roti* made from wheat flour. The *kheer* is prepared using milk, *arwa* rice (sun-dried, unboiled rice), and jaggery, while the *roti* is prepared without salt. Additionally, bananas and seasonal fruits are offered during the worship.

4. Worship After Sunset
In the evening, after sunset, the *vrati* bathes and wears clean clothes. They then light a *diya* (lamp) and worship the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. The *kheer*, *roti*, and fruits are offered as *bhog*, and prayers are made for the happiness and prosperity of the family.

5. The *Vrati* Partakes in the *Prasad* First
Once the worship concludes, the *vrati* is the first to consume the Kharna *prasad*. Following this, the *prasad* (offering) is distributed among other family members and relatives. Once the *prasad* is consumed, a *nirjala* (waterless) fast—lasting approximately 36 hours—begins.

What rules should be followed on the day of Kharna?

During the grand festival of Chhath, great emphasis is placed on purity and discipline. On the day of Kharna, those observing the fast (*vratis*) should adhere to the following guidelines:

*Nirjala* (Waterless) Fast: On the day of Kharna, no food or water is consumed from morning until evening. After partaking in the *prasad*, the next phase—a *nirjala* fast—commences.

Cleanliness: Ensure that the home, kitchen, and place of worship are kept clean. The utensils used to prepare the *prasad* must also be thoroughly cleaned.

*Sattvic* (Pure) *Prasad*: Ingredients such as garlic, onion, and salt are not used in the preparation of *kheer* (rice pudding) and *roti* (flatbread). Great care must be taken to maintain the purity of the *prasad*.

Observance of *Brahmacharya* (Celibacy): Throughout the four days of Chhath, those observing the fast lead a disciplined lifestyle and practice *brahmacharya*.

Restraint in Speech and Conduct: One should avoid arguments, the use of harsh or abusive language, and negative thoughts.

Sleeping on the Floor: In many families, those observing the fast sleep on a mat spread on the floor, rather than on a bed.

Breaking the Fast (*Paran*): The *nirjala* fast that begins after Kharna will be concluded on November 16, 2026, after offering *arghya* (libations) to the rising sun.

Traditions and rules associated with Chhath Puja may vary slightly depending on the region and the specific family. Therefore, one should perform the rituals in accordance with the customs and beliefs of their own family.

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