Sandhya Arghya: The Grand Evening Offering
The third day of Chhath Puja, falling on Shashthi Tithi, is the main day of the festival. Known as Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering), this day is celebrated with immense grandeur, faith, and a sea of humanity gathering at riverbanks and ponds.
Preparation of the Daura and Soop
The morning of Sandhya Arghya is buzzing with activity. Family members prepare the legendary Chhath Prasad: Thekua. This requires monumental effort, as it is deep-fried in pure ghee in large quantities.
The offerings are meticulously arranged in a Daura (a large bamboo basket) and several Soops (winnowing baskets). The items include Thekua, sugarcane stalks, coconuts, pomelo (daab/gaagar), bananas, apples, and radishes with leaves.
The Procession to the Ghat
In the late afternoon, the family marches toward the designated water body (Ghat). Traditionally, the male head of the family carries the heavy Daura on his head barefoot, signifying submission and devotion to the deity. Folk songs (Chhath Geet) praising Chhathi Maiya echo through the streets.
The Ritual of Offering to the Setting Sun
Upon reaching the Ghat, the Vrati steps into the cold water, usually waist-deep. As the sun begins to set, the Vrati holds the Soop filled with offerings. Family members and other devotees pour raw milk and water over the Soop as it is presented to the Sun God.
After the sun completely dips below the horizon, the Vrati returns to the shore. The family then returns home, keeping the Daura safe for the final morning ritual. The Vrati continues their waterless fast through the night.
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.