Kharna: Committing to the 36-Hour Fast
The second day of Chhath Puja is known as Kharna (or Lohanda). Falling on Panchami Tithi, this day tests the Vrati's endurance and dedication. It serves as the transition into the grueling 36-hour Nirjala (without water) fast.
The Fasting Rule of Kharna
After having their meal on Nahay Khay, the Vrati begins a day-long fast on Kharna. They do not consume a single drop of water or morsel of food throughout the daylight hours. The day is spent in silent prayer, meditation, and preparing the evening Prasad.
Puja Vidhi and Preparation of Prasad
As the sun sets, the Vrati, aided by family members, prepares the highly revered Kharna Prasad. The kitchen must be spotlessly clean, and the food is cooked over a new mud chulha (stove).
The traditional Kharna Prasad includes:
- Rasiyaw (Jaggery Kheer): Rice is cooked in milk and naturally sweetened with pure jaggery (gud) instead of sugar. It symbolizes sweetness and divine energy.
- Roti: Flatbreads made from freshly ground wheat flour, cooked with pure ghee.
- Fruits: Bananas and sometimes other seasonal fruits are included.
The Ritual of Eating in Isolation
Once the food is prepared, it is offered to Chhathi Maiya in a secluded room. The Vrati then consumes the Prasad alone behind closed doors. Complete silence is maintained in the house during this time, as any noise (such as a baby crying or a dog barking) might cause the Vrati to immediately stop eating.
After the Vrati has finished, the doors are opened, and the Rasiyaw and Roti are distributed to family, friends, and neighbors as a deeply cherished Prasad.
The original article text is preserved from the supplied Chhath Puja collection. Navigation, summaries, imagery and clearly labeled editorial notes were added for this edition.