Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, is a beautiful ode to the Sun God and nature. It's a festival with immense cultural and spiritual significance, where devotees offer their prayers to the Sun God, seeking blessings for well-being, prosperity, and longevity.

　　Central to this vibrant celebration are the traditional dishes that hold a special place in the hearts and palates of those who commemorate Chhath Puja. These dishes aren't just culinary delights; they represent a rich heritage and centuries-old traditions. Here are the five must-have dishes for Chhath Puja that add flavour, tradition, and meaning to the festivities.

　　Thekua

　　Thekua is an integral part of the Chhath Puja festivities. Devotees prepare this delectable sweet offering to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being. Thekua's key ingredients include clarified butter (ghee), whole wheat flour, jaggery (unrefined cane sugar), and sometimes grated coconut. These elements are combined to form a dough, which is then shaped into intricate designs. The rich flavour and enticing aroma of Thekua stem from the blend of ghee, jaggery, and the occasional addition of spices.

　　Once prepared, Thekua is offered to the sun god as a symbol of devotion and gratitude. It is then shared among family members and fellow devotees as prasad, a sacred food imbued with divine blessings.

　　Pirukiya

　　Pirukiya is a delectable sweet dumpling, similar to Gujiyas from North India, that is deep-fried in ghee and presented as an offering to the gods during Chhath Puja and other festivities. These dumplings are typically made from wheat flour and filled with coconut, sugar or jaggery and a generous amount of chopped nuts. Unlike Gujiya, Pirukiya is not dipped in sugar syrup before serving, giving it a dry and distinct texture. The dumplings are often filled with nuts like almonds, cashews, and pistachios. Pirukiya is a popular sweet treat in Bihar and Jharkhand, and people of all ages enjoy it.

　　Chawal Ke Ladoo

　　Rice Ladoo, known as Chawal Ke Ladoo and Kachwaniya in Bihar, is an aromatic and delectable Indian dessert. This sweet treat is crafted from simple rice flour, jaggery or sugar, and a ghee blend. Its rich aroma and nutty, crunchy texture make it a favourite during holidays, celebrations, and festivals. Rice Ladoo is a must-have indulgence for those seeking a slightly sweet and satisfying dessert.

　　Lauki Dal

　　"Lauki Dal" refers to a lentil-based dish in which bottle gourd, or lauki, is a primary ingredient. This hearty and wholesome dish harmoniously combines bottle gourd's subtle flavour and unique texture with lentils. Adding fresh coriander leaves as a garnish completes the preparation of lauki dal, ready for serving. Enjoy this simple, homemade lunch during Chhath Puja, pairing it with rotis or steaming hot rice.

　　Kaddu Bhaat

　　Kaddu bhat is an essential dish prepared on the first day of Chhath Puja. This simple yet wholesome meal comprises satvik kaddu curry (pumpkin curry), rice, and pulses. Devotees prepare this prasad with unwavering devotion, adhering to the satvik principles of purity and vegetarianism.

　　The ritual of Nahay Khaye marks the commencement of Chhath Puja. Devotees begin with a purifying bath, followed by preparing kaddu bhat as prasad. This prasad is consumed as their first meal of the day, symbolising spiritual nourishment.

　　Kaddu bhat embodies the essence of Chhath Puja—simplicity, purity, and gratitude. It is a testament to the deep-rooted faith and devotion of the devotees, who cherish this tradition as an integral part of their spiritual journey.

　　Chhath Puja 2024

　　Chhath Puja is an ancient Hindu festival devoted to Lord Surya, the Sun God, celebrated with deep reverence across Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. This year, Kharna Chhath Puja will be observed on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. The festival honours Surya, who is believed to bestow prosperity, vitality, and spiritual well-being upon his devotees.

　　Spanning four days, Chhath Puja combines self-discipline, devotion, and a profound respect for nature’s forces. In Hindu tradition, Lord Surya, symbolising health, balance, and abundance, is thought to bless his worshippers with peace and prosperity.