Chhath Puja is upon us, and with it comes a wave of warmth, traditions, and prasad preps! This festival holds a special place in every Bihari and Jharkhandi heart, bringing families together to pay homage to Surya Dev (Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. The festival kicks off with the much-awaited “Nahay Khay,” which, if you’re in the loop, is all about cleansing, prepping, and thekua-making! This year, Nahay Khay falls on November 5, marking the festival’s wholesome beginning.
What is Nahay Khay?
The first day of Chhath Puja, known as “Nahay Khay,” literally translates to “bathe and eat.” It’s all about purification—both physical and mental. Devotees begin their day with a holy bath, usually taken in nearby rivers or water bodies. For those who can’t make it to a river, a bath at home with full reverence does the trick. After the cleanse, it’s time to prep the first of many prasad delicacies and meals, all made with utmost simplicity, love, and a dash of festivity!
Timing is key
Devotees who follow Chhath Puja rituals strictly tend to observe auspicious timings for their bath and the Nahay Khay meal. While specific hours can vary, it’s generally considered ideal to perform Nahay Khay rituals early in the morning, during the sunrise hours. This bath is significant as it symbolises6y the beginning of purification before Chhath Puja’s three main fasting days. Early risers score extra points for devotion, and hey, a morning bath with a festive spirit can be super refreshing! And this year, the timing for Nahay Khay begins at 6: 39 am and ends at 5:41 pm.
Nahay Khay: Food, prasad, and the magic of thekua
After the cleansing bath, it’s time to cook the first meal, and only satvik (pure and vegetarian) food is prepared. Garlic and onion are off the table; instead, rice, dal, pumpkin, and bottle gourd (lauki) take centre stage. This simplicity is all about devotion! Thekua, a beloved prasad of Chhath, may be prepped today or on the following days. With its golden-brown texture and jaggery sweetness, thekua brings a wholesome vibe that no other snack can quite match.
Why Nahay Khay feels so special
Nahay Khay is not just a ritual; it’s a moment that brings families together as they embark on this journey of devotion and gratitude. Whether you’re celebrating in the heart of Bihar or tuning in from your city apartment, Nahay Khay sets the mood for Chhath. This day’s wholesome aura and anticipation are like a deep breath of fresh air before the fasting marathon begins. So, gear up, take a holy dip, keep your spirits high, and let the Chhath vibes flow!