Chhath Puja, also known as Maha Parv, is a highly revered Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India, especially in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. The festival, which spans four days, honors Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, symbolizing gratitude and respect for nature. Observed with immense devotion, Chhath Puja involves rituals that reflect cultural unity, family well-being, and community harmony. In 2024, Chhath Puja will be celebrated from November 5 to November 8, attracting devotees who partake in traditional practices and observe strict fasting.
Understanding the rich significance and traditional practices of Chhath Puja offers a glimpse into the vibrant culture and religious beliefs of India. To deepen this knowledge, we have compiled 30+ General Knowledge questions and answers on Chhath Puja 2024. These questions cover various facets of the festival, including its rituals, historical background, important dates, significance, and associated myths. For instance, Chhath Puja is rooted in ancient Hindu legends, with tales involving figures like Lord Rama, Draupadi, and Karna, each of whom is believed to have observed rituals of sun worship. Such stories highlight the festival’s longstanding association with reverence for nature and divine blessings.
Each day of the four-day celebration holds specific rituals: the first day, Nahay Khay, involves a ritualistic bath and preparation for the festival. The second day, Kharna, is marked by a strict fast, with devotees consuming only a special Prasad after sunset. The third day, Sandhya Arghya, is the peak of the festival, as devotees stand in water bodies and offer “Arghya” (water) to the setting sun. Finally, on the fourth day, Usha Arghya, devotees break their 36-hour fast after offering water to the rising sun. This sequence of rituals represents purity, devotion, and gratitude toward the Sun God, which is believed to bring prosperity and happiness.
By exploring these GK questions and answers on Chhath Puja 2024, one can gain valuable insights into this unique festival, which not only celebrates nature and the cosmic cycle but also strengthens the bonds of family and community. Whether you’re a student, an enthusiast of Indian culture, or someone looking to wish loved ones a “Happy Chhath Puja 2024,” this compilation will deepen your understanding and appreciation of one of India’s oldest and most sacred festivals.
Also Check: What is Chhath Puja and Why is it Celebrated?
30+ GK Questions and Answer on Chhat Puja 2024
Ques. What is Chhath Puja?
Ans. Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Sun and Chhath Mata for prosperity and well-being.
Ques. When will Chhath Puja 2024 be celebrated?
Ans. Chhath Puja 2024 will be celebrated from November 5 to November 8.
Ques. Chhath Puja is primarily celebrated in which states?
Ans. It is mainly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Uttarakhand.
Ques. What is the significance of Chhath Puja?
Ans. The festival brings health, happiness, and prosperity and is performed for the well-being of children and families.
Ques. On which Tithi does Chhath Puja begin?
Ans. It begins on Chaturthi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month according to the Hindu calendar.
Ques. What is the first day of Chhath Puja called?
Ans. The first day of Chhath Puja is called Nahay Khay.
Do Check: Hindu Festivals List 2024
Ques. What happens on the day of Nahay Khay?
Ans. Devotees take a holy bath and consume only one meal, marking the start of Chhath Puja.
Ques. What is the second day of Chhath Puja known as?
Ans. The second day is known as Kharna.
Ques. What special ritual is followed on Kharna?
Ans. Devotees observe a strict fast, consuming special Prasad after offering it to Lord Sun.
Ques. What is the most important day of Chhath Puja?
Ans. The third day, known as Sandhya Arghya, is considered the most important day.
Ques. What is done on Sandhya Arghya?
Ans. Devotees offer water (Arghya) to the setting sun while standing in a river or pond.
Ques. What is the final day of Chhath Puja called?
Ans. The final day is called Usha Arghya or Parana Day.
Ques. What happens on Usha Arghya?
Ans. On Usha Arghya, devotees offer water to the rising sun and conclude their fast.
Ques. What are the sunrise and sunset timings for Usha Arghya in 2024?
Ans. Sunrise is at 6:42 am, and sunset is at 5:47 pm on November 8, 2024.
Ques. Who is the deity worshiped during Chhath Puja?
Ans. Devotees worship Lord Sun and his sister, Chhathi Maiya.
Ques. What does Chhath Puja represent?
Ans. It represents gratitude, nature worship, and family well-being.
Also Check: GK Questions on Festivals in India
Ques. What is a common greeting for Chhath Puja?
Ans. A common greeting is “Happy Chhath Puja” or “Chhath Puja wish.”
Ques. Which ancient character is associated with the beginning of sun worship?
Ans. Karna, a character from Mahabharata, is believed to have started sun worship by offering daily Arghya.
Ques. Which Hindu epic connects Chhath Puja with Lord Rama and Sita?
Ans. In the Ramayana, it is said that Lord Rama and Sita performed the Chhath Puja after returning to Ayodhya.
Ques. What does Nahay Khay symbolize?
Ans. It symbolizes purification and dedication as devotees begin the festival with a holy bath.
Ques. What is the main Prasad of Chhath Puja?
Ans. The main Prasad includes items like rice, thekua, and fruits.
Ques. Why do devotees fast during Chhath Puja?
Ans. The fast represents devotion, purification, and gratitude toward the Sun God.
Ques. What is the significance of Sandhya Arghya?
Ans. Sandhya Arghya is the evening offering to the setting sun, symbolizing respect for the end of the day.
Ques. What is unique about the Chhath Puja fast?
Ans. It is a 36-hour fast, with devotees not consuming food or water on the third day.
Ques. How does Chhath Puja celebrate nature?
Ans. Devotees worship by rivers or ponds, emphasizing the connection with water and the Sun.
Ques. What are the four days of Chhath Puja in 2024?
Ans. November 5: Nahay Khay, November 6: Kharna, November 7: Sandhya Arghya, November 8: Usha Arghya.
Ques. What does the term “Chhath” mean?
Ans. Chhath refers to the number six in Hindi, as the festival begins on the sixth day of Kartik month.
Ques. Why is Chhath Puja also called Maha Parv?
Ans. It is called Maha Parv due to its great significance and strict observance by devotees.
Ques. How does Chhath Puja impact society and communities?
Ans. It fosters community spirit and unity as thousands gather by water bodies to pray together.
Ques. Which other countries observe Chhath Puja?
Ans. It is observed in parts of Nepal and by Indian communities abroad.
Ques. What are devotees prohibited from consuming during Chhath Puja?
Ans. Devotees avoid non-vegetarian food, garlic, and onions during the festival.
Ques. How do people prepare for Chhath Puja?
Ans. They clean their homes, take holy baths, and prepare special food offerings.
Ques. What can you say about the historical significance of Chhath Puja?
Ans. Chhath Puja is one of the oldest Hindu festivals, with roots tracing back to ancient texts and mythology.
Ques. What is another popular Chhath Puja wish?
Ans. “May Lord Sun bless you with good health and happiness. Happy Chhath Puja 2024!”
