The 4-day Chhath festival is going on with full pomp and zeal in the states of eastern UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and In Nepal. The festival is celebrated six days after Diwali and is dedicated to the Sun god – Lord Surya and his sister Shashthi Devi or Chhathi Maiya.
The third day, i.e., 10th November is celebrated as the main day of the festival. The devotees undertake the rituals of fasting, standing in the holy river, and worshipping the rising and the setting sun. With that, several delicacies are also prepared to offer Lord Surya. This festival is famous for the traditional sweets related to it, which are offered as Prasad. During these 4 days, the food that is prepared does not contain common salt, onions, and garlic.
Some traditional recipes to prepare for Chhath puja and for you to enjoy
Thekua: Also called ‘Khajur’ and ‘Thikari’, is the most famous dish associated with this festival. It is made from ghee, wheat flour, dry fruits, and sugar. The ingredients are combined into the dough, which is later given the shape of small tikkis, and then they are deep-fried. After it has been prepared, it is offered to Lord Surya.
Rasiyaw: This dish is made with rice, gur (jaggery), and milk. This dessert is prepared in a manner similar to regular sugar kheer, and it is offered to Lord Surya before serving it to the devotees.
Ghiya Sabzi (Bottlegourd) and Rice: This dish is prepared in pure ghee and rock salt on a traditional clay chulha (stove). It is served along with rice, pakoras, and even pooris. Pooris are prepared with wheat flour and are fried in pure ghee.
Green Chana: It is prepared using green chana that is soaked overnight. The next morning it is cooked in ghee with cumin and green chilies.
Enjoy these tasty and satvik dishes at this festival. Happy Chhath Puja!
