When is Chhath Puja in 2026? Following Diwali, people in many states across the country eagerly await the grand festival of Chhath. Dedicated to the Sun God (Surya Dev) and Chhathi Maiya, this folk festival spans four consecutive days. During this period, devotees observe rigorous fasts and follow strict rituals while worshipping the Sun God. It is a deeply held religious belief that worshipping Chhathi Maiya brings blessings for the well-being of one’s children, the prosperity of the family, and overall happiness and success. A central tradition of this festival involves offering 'arghya' (oblations) to both the setting and the rising sun. The festival is primarily celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Chhath, which falls in the month of Kartik, begins with the ritual of 'Nahay-Khay'. This is followed by the observances of 'Kharna', 'Sandhya Arghya' (evening offering), and 'Usha Arghya' (morning offering). On the final day, after offering 'arghya' at sunrise, the devotees break their fast—a ritual known as 'Paran'—marking the conclusion of this grand festival. Let us find out when Chhath Puja will begin in 2026, the full schedule for the four days, and the auspicious timings for offering 'arghya' to the Sun.

When will Chhath Puja 2026 be celebrated?

According to the Drik Panchang, the 'Shashthi Tithi' (sixth day) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Kartik begins at 11:23 PM on November 14, 2026, and concludes at 2:00 AM on November 16, 2026. In accordance with the traditions and the calendar, the main observance of Chhath Puja will take place on Sunday, November 15, 2026.

Throughout this four-day religious observance, devotees perform formal worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. It is believed that observing this fast with sincere devotion ensures peace and happiness within the household and bestows blessings of good health and a prosperous life upon one's children. Four-Day Calendar for Chhath Puja 2026

Day 1: Nahay-Khay (Friday, November 13, 2026)

The grand festival of Chhath begins with the tradition of 'Nahay-Khay'. On the day of Kartik Shukla Chaturthi, those observing the fast (vratis) bathe in the morning to purify themselves and thoroughly clean their homes and kitchens. Following this, a *satvik* (pure/simple) meal is prepared and consumed. Great care is taken to maintain complete purity throughout the process—from the preparation of the food to its consumption. With 'Nahay-Khay', the rigorous four-day fast and worship commence.

Day 2: Lohanda and Kharna (Saturday, November 14, 2026)

The second day of the Chhath festival is observed as 'Kharna', also known as 'Lohanda'. On this day, the *vratis* observe a *nirjala* (waterless) fast from sunrise until the evening. In the evening, after bathing and performing rituals, an offering (*bhog*) is made to Chhathi Maiya. For this occasion, *kheer* (pudding) made with jaggery, *rotis*, and other traditional delicacies are prepared as *prasad*. After the rituals, the *vratis* partake in this *prasad*. This also marks the beginning of a demanding *nirjala* fast that lasts for approximately 36 hours.

Day 3: Sandhya Arghya (Sunday, November 15, 2026)

The third day of the Chhath festival holds special religious significance. On this day, the *vratis* arrive at the banks of a river, pond, or other water body, carrying *sups* (bamboo trays) filled with ritual items and traditional *prasad*. There, they offer *arghya* (a ritual offering) of water and milk to the setting sun. *Thekua*, fruits, and other seasonal offerings are presented to the Sun God. In 2026, the time for *Sandhya Arghya* is scheduled for 5:28 PM. During this time, devotees pray for the happiness and peace of their families, the progress of their children, and overall prosperity. 

Day Four: Usha Arghya and Paran (Monday, November 16, 2026)

The Chhath Puja concludes on the fourth day with the worship of the rising sun. On this final day, those observing the fast arrive at the riverbanks (ghats) before sunrise, carrying the necessary ritual offerings. As the first rays of the sun appear, an *arghya* (offering) is made to the sun; this ritual is known as 'Usha Arghya.' In 2026, the time for Usha Arghya is scheduled for 6:44 AM. Following this, prayers are offered to Chhathi Maiya, and blessings are sought for the well-being of the family. Once all religious rituals are completed, those observing the fast break their fast by consuming *prasad*. With this, the four-day-long grand festival of Chhath comes to an end.

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