The article defines Arghya through offerings to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. It describes family participation at sunset and sunrise and interprets the flowing offering as gratitude, surrender and prayers for well-being.
The Act of Supreme Surrender: Offering Arghya
Arghya is the central ritual of Chhath Puja. It refers to the sacred offering of water, milk, and food items made to a deity: in this case, Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.
The Process and Meaning
During Sandhya Arghya (sunset) and Usha Arghya (sunrise), the Vrati stands waist-deep in water holding the Soop. Family members stand nearby and slowly pour raw milk and holy river water over the offerings in the Soop so that it trickles down into the river.
This act signifies the continuous flow of life and devotion. It is a gesture of complete surrender, thanking the Sun God for his life-sustaining energy and seeking his blessings for the longevity and prosperity of the family.
