Who is Chhathi Maiya?
While the Sun God (Surya) is a prominent deity of Chhath Puja, the festival derives its name and emotional core from Chhathi Maiya. In Hindu mythology, Chhathi Maiya is known as the sister of Lord Surya. She is the divine force that devotees petition for the longevity, health, and prosperity of their children and families.
The Manifestation of Shashti Devi
According to the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, Chhathi Maiya is the sixth form of Prakriti (Nature) and is known as Shashti Devi (the goddess of the sixth day). Lord Brahma is said to have created the universe and divided Prakriti into six parts, the sixth being Shashti.
Shashti Devi is regarded as the protector of children. She blesses childless couples with progeny and ensures the long, healthy life of offspring. For this reason, the primary motivation for many women observing the grueling 36-hour fast is the well-being of their children.
The Legend of King Priyavrat
A famous legend associated with Chhathi Maiya is that of King Priyavrat and his wife, Queen Malini. Despite many years of marriage, they remained childless. Sage Kashyap advised the king to perform a Putrakameshti Yajna. The yajna resulted in the queen's pregnancy, but tragically, the child was born dead.
Overcome with grief, the king was about to take his own life when a radiant goddess appeared before him in the sky. She introduced herself as Shashti Devi, the protector of the universe's children. She touched the lifeless child, breathing life back into him. In profound gratitude, the king promised to worship her every year on the sixth day of the Kartik month, establishing the tradition of Chhath Puja.
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.