CHHATH PUJA
Bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed in your state today on November 11, 2026?
On November 11, 2026, banks will observe holidays in specific states for various regional festivals. These festivals include Laxmi Puja, Ningol Chakkouba, and Bhai Dooj. Some states will continue to operate normally despite these closures. Bank customers should confirm the holiday schedule before visiting their local branches.
Chhath Puja 2026 Date: Check four-day calendar, significance of each day, rituals from Nahay Khay to Usha Arghya
Chhath Puja will be celebrated from November 13 to November 16 in 2026. The festival involves fasting, prayers, and traditional offerings to the Sun God. Each day has specific rituals, beginning with Nahay Khay and culminating in Usha Arghya. Devotees clean their homes and prepare special food offerings during this period. The festival emphasizes gratitude for nature's blessings and prayers for family health and prosperity.
Chhath Puja 2026 Date: November 15 or 16? Check 4-Day Calendar, Arghya Timings and Delhi Holiday
Chhath Puja 2026 will be observed from November 13 to November 16, with Sandhya Arghya on November 15 and Usha Arghya on November 16. The four-day festival begins with Nahay Khay on November 13, followed by Kharna on November 14. Check the complete Chhath Puja calendar, sunrise and sunset timings, fasting rules, puja samagri, rituals, significance and the latest Delhi holiday update.
Kharna 2026: Why Is the Prasad Eaten in Complete Silence? Ritual Rule Behind Chhath Puja's Second Day
During Kharna, the second day of Chhath Puja, devotees observe a day-long fast and break it after sunset by eating a special meal of jaggery kheer and roti. However, one of the most distinctive traditions is that the vrati eats this prasad in complete silence, without conversations or disturbances. Why is this rule followed, and what happens if someone makes a noise while the meal is being eaten?
Nahay Khay 2026: New Saree or Freshly Washed? Know the Tradition Behind Ganga Snan
Nahay Khay heralds the commencement of Chhath Puja, embodying rituals centered on cleanliness and devotion. Adorning a new or freshly laundered saree symbolizes purity, guiding devotees into the fasting phase. Attention to clean garments is mirrored in the preparation of the Nahay Khay meal, with offerings crafted to honor the deities.
Chhath Nahay Khay 2026: November 13 or 14? Check Day 1 Date, Rituals, Kaddu Bhaat and Vrat Rules
Chhath Puja starts on November 13, 2026, signaling a time for devotion and spiritual cleansing. Participants engage in rituals that highlight purification and fasting traditions. Homes and kitchens are meticulously cleaned, and a holy bath precedes the preparation of a humble vegetarian meal known as kaddu-bhaat, consumed post-prayers. The festivities unfold over multiple days, dedicated to honoring Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.
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Delhi Chhath Puja holiday announced for November 16: Schools, colleges, government offices to remain closed
The Delhi government has declared November 16, 2026, a public holiday on account of Chhath Puja. All government offices, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings will remain closed on Monday. The four-day festival will be celebrated from November 13 to 16. Meanwhile, the Rekha Gupta-led government is preparing more than 1,400 ghats across Delhi, including an 11-km-long ghat along the Munak Canal.
Chhath Puja Complete Samagri List: Check All Items Required for Nahay Khay, Kharna, Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya
Chhath Puja is a vibrant multi-day festival celebrated with profound devotion, requiring meticulous preparations and specific offerings. Families are encouraged to create detailed lists for each ritual to avoid missing vital items. Essential components include bamboo baskets and a variety of traditional fruits. Rituals revolve around honoring the Sun God, along with preparing special dishes.
Chhath Puja Vrat Rules 2026: What Can Parvaitins Eat and What Should They Avoid During the Fast?
Chhath Puja vrat involves four days of strict food discipline, purification and devotion to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. From the traditional Kaddu Bhaat meal on Nahay Khay and jaggery kheer on Kharna to the approximately 36-hour nirjala fast, devotees follow specific dietary practices throughout the festival. Here is what parvaitins eat, which foods they avoid and when the fast is finally broken.
Nahay Khay 2026: Kaddu Bhaat Recipe, Traditional Food Rules And Chhath Puja Rituals
Nahay Khay 2026 will be observed on November 13, marking the beginning of the four-day Chhath Puja festival. Devotees take a holy bath and prepare the traditional Kaddu Bhaat meal featuring bottle gourd, chana dal and rice. Know the significance of Nahay Khay, its authentic recipe, ingredients, traditional food rules and dietary restrictions.
Who Is Chhathi Maiya? The Goddess Behind Chhath Puja and Her Surprising Connection With Surya Dev
Millions of devotees pray to Chhathi Maiya during Chhath Puja, but who is the goddess behind the festival? Often described as the sister of Surya Dev and a protector of children, Chhathi Maiya also has mythological associations with Shashthi Devi and Devasena. Her identity is rooted in regional folklore, ancient beliefs and stories passed down through generations. Here is what devotees believe about the goddess worshipped during Chhath.
Passengers climbing through train windows, some travelling in toilets, others waiting 12 hours in queues: Railway stations witness unprecedented Diwali-Chhath chaos
Railway stations across Delhi, Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are witnessing massive crowds as passengers head home for Diwali and Chhath Puja. Videos show commuters attempting to enter packed trains through doors and windows, while some wait up to 12 hours to board services. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says 18,000 special trains have been added this festive season, alongside holding areas and AI-enabled cameras to manage crowds.
Diwali/ Laxmi Puja bank holiday: Are banks open or closed today on November 9, 2026?
Bank branches will close in certain states on November 9, 2026, for Diwali and related festivities. Customers should verify bank operating hours in their regions before planning any bank visits. Celebrations including Diwali/Laxmi Puja will lead to closures in several states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Other states and union territories will maintain regular operations on this day.
Away From Bihar This Chhath Puja? Check These Ghats in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru
Thousands of families from Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh celebrate Chhath Puja in cities far from their hometowns. From Yamuna-side ghats and neighbourhood ponds in Delhi to Juhu Beach in Mumbai and community-organised celebrations in Bengaluru, here are some places where devotees can observe Chhath Puja in 2026, along with practical details to check before visiting.
Why Is the Setting Sun Worshipped Before the Rising Sun During Chhath Puja? Know the Significance
Chhath Puja follows a tradition rarely seen in other Hindu festivals: devotees offer Arghya to the setting Sun before worshipping the rising Sun the next morning. But why does the festival begin its most important solar offerings with sunset? The answer lies in its understanding of gratitude, nature, life's cycles and the belief that the Sun deserves reverence at every stage.
Travelling for Chhath Puja This Week? 8 Last-Minute Train and Bus Booking Tips to Reach Home on Time
Travelling home for Chhath Puja 2026 but still struggling to find confirmed train or bus tickets? With the festival approaching, demand for routes connecting Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major cities with Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand can make last-minute bookings difficult. From checking special trains and Tatkal quotas to considering nearby railway stations and alternative bus routes, here are practical ways to plan your journey before November 13.
Remain vigilant during Diwali, Kali Puja: Suvendu tells Kolkata Police after Chorbagan tragedy
Suvendu Adhikari addressed the tragic stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal that resulted in 19 deaths. He highlighted the importance of improved coordination between police and event organizers during major festivals. Adhikari urged caution for upcoming Kali Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja celebrations to avoid similar incidents. Nine arrests have been made in connection with the stampede investigation led by a special investigation team.
Saturday bank holiday: Are bank branches open today, November 7, 2026? Check details
Customers should mark November 7, 2026, on their calendars as banks will be fully operational on this first Saturday of the month. They will be able to process cash deposits, withdrawals, and cheque services. However, bank closures will occur on the second and fourth Saturdays. Additionally, with upcoming holidays such as Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti, it’s advisable to check the holiday schedule for effective banking planning.
Southern Railway runs 132 special trains, deploys extra RPF personnel to manage Diwali rush
Southern Railway managed the rise in passenger traffic during the Diwali season by operating special trains. A total of 132 special trains were run, along with additional coaches for 22 Mail and Express services. Key destinations linked include Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Bengaluru among other cities across India. Comprehensive security measures were implemented at major stations to ensure passenger safety and guidance.
Chhath Puja Geet: Popular Folk and Devotional Songs Sung During Nahay Khay, Kharna and Arghya
Chhath Puja Geet are an integral part of the four-day festival dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. From traditional Bhojpuri folk songs sung during Nahay Khay and Kharna to devotional melodies accompanying Sandhya and Usha Arghya, these songs reflect faith, gratitude and cultural heritage. Discover popular Chhath songs and the legacy of legendary folk singer Sharda Sinha.
Delhi friends take auto to Bihar after failing to get train tickets; 1,200-km journey for Chhath Puja wins internet's respect
Unable to get train tickets for Chhath Puja, a Delhi man named Rishav Thakur has taken an auto-rickshaw to travel to Madhubani in Bihar with his companions. The group is making the unusual journey after missing the festival at home for nearly three years. His videos have attracted attention on social media.
November 2026 Hindu Festival Calendar: Diwali, Chhath Puja, Dev Diwali, Guru Nanak Jayanti and Other Important Dates
November 2026 features several important Hindu festivals, including Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Gujarati New Year, Bhai Dooj, Chhath Puja, Tulsi Vivah and Dev Diwali. The month also includes Rama Ekadashi, Masik Shivratri, Kartik Purnima and Guru Nanak Jayanti. Check the complete November 2026 Hindu festival calendar for important dates, religious significance and observances across India.
Why Chhath Puja Is Considered One of the Strictest Hindu Fasts: The 36-Hour Nirjala Vrat Explained
Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival marked by a demanding 36-hour Nirjala fast. Devotees abstain from food and water while engaging in various rituals and prayers. The fast begins after Kharna and concludes with Usha Arghya offered to the rising Sun. Special offerings, including thekua, are prepared to honor the deities during the festival. Health considerations are important as the fast can pose risks for certain individuals.
Chhath Puja Prasad 2026: How to Make Traditional Thekua and What to Keep in the Daura
Thekua is one of the most important prasad items prepared for Chhath Puja, while the daura basket carries fruits, sugarcane, coconut and other offerings for Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. Here is an easy traditional thekua recipe, the ingredients required and a practical list of what goes into the Chhath Puja daura.
November 2026 Festival List: From Dhanteras and Diwali to Chhath Puja, Dev Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti, check complete calendar of festivals and important dates
November 2026 Festival Calendar: November 2026 marks an important time for religious observances and celebrations across India. Significant festivals include Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, among others. Devotees will partake in various traditional rituals during these festive occasions. Important celebrations such as Chhath Puja, Tulsi Vivah, and Guru Nanak Jayanti will also take place in this month. The article provides an overview of dates and significance for each festival.
November 2026 holiday list: Check full list of Diwali, Bhai dooj, Govardhan, Guru Nanak Jayanti and other dates and festivals
November 2026 holiday list includes Diwali on November 8, Chhath Puja on November 15 and Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 24. The month also features Naraka Chaturdashi, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Duj and Guru Teg Bahadur's Martyrdom Day, with holidays varying across states and institutions.
School holiday tomorrow, November 2: Will schools remain closed in Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra and other states?
Parents and students are verifying whether schools will remain closed on November 2 due to upcoming festivals. Different states may begin Diwali vacations at varying times, impacting school schedules. Institutions in Delhi-NCR are likely to maintain regular classes unless stated otherwise. Schools in Maharashtra may have holidays beginning on November 2, leading to potential closures until November 14.
Diwali, Chhath Puja special trains: Railways announces 3 unreserved trains from Kolkata to Bihar and UP; check timings and dates
Eastern Railway has announced three unreserved special trains connecting Sealdah and Kolkata with Jaynagar, Ballia and Gorakhpur to manage the festive passenger rush ahead of Chhath. Each train will have 20 coaches, including 18 general second-class coaches. Here are their timings, departure dates, return schedules and important stoppages.
As Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana Draws Attention, Discover the Sacred Chhath Puja Connection With Lord Rama and Sita
Chhath Puja is one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to the Sun God, but its connection with the Ramayana adds another layer of religious significance. According to popular beliefs, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita observed Sun worship after returning to Ayodhya from their 14-year exile. As Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Lord Rama in the upcoming Ramayana brings renewed attention to the epic, here is the lesser-known story connecting Chhath Puja, Goddess Sita and the sacred tradition of offering Arghya to the Sun.
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