There is something almost magical about Chhath Puja.
As the sun begins to set, thousands of devotees step into rivers, ponds and ghats, holding baskets filled with fruits, thekua and other offerings. The sky turns orange, the chants begin, and for a few moments, it feels like the entire world has paused to say thank you to the Sun God.
But there is another question that makes Chhath even more fascinating — why do people worship the setting sun? And who exactly is Chhathi Maiya?
The Story of Chhathi Maiya
Chhathi Maiya is deeply revered as the goddess of Chhath Puja and is believed by devotees to protect children, bless families with prosperity and fulfil heartfelt wishes.
There are several stories associated with her. One popular belief connects Chhathi Maiya with Shashthi Devi, a goddess traditionally associated with the protection of children and motherhood.
According to a popular legend, King Priyavrat and his wife Malini were blessed with a child after a long period of being childless. Sadly, the baby was born lifeless. Devastated, the king was preparing to end his life when Shashthi Devi appeared before him. She introduced herself as the daughter of Lord Brahma and promised that those who worshipped her with devotion would be blessed with children and family happiness.
The king followed her instructions and worshipped her on the sixth day, and the legend says that his child was brought back to life.
That sixth day is believed to be connected with the name Chhathi, and over generations, the tradition became deeply associated with Chhath Puja and Chhathi Maiya.
Of course, like many Indian traditions, Chhath has several regional stories and beliefs surrounding its origins. But at the heart of them all is the same emotion — faith, gratitude and the wish for the well-being of one’s family.
So, Why Worship the Setting Sun?
This is perhaps the most beautiful part of Chhath.
Devotees don’t only pray to the rising Sun. On the evening of the festival, they gather at water bodies to offer Sandhya Arghya to the setting Sun.
While the setting sun might symbolise an ending, Chhath turns it into a moment of gratitude. Devotees acknowledge the Sun for the life and energy it provides, even as the day comes to an end.
The following morning, they return before sunrise for Usha Arghya, offering prayers to the rising Sun.
And somewhere between that sunset and sunrise lies the real beauty of Chhath.
It teaches us that we should be grateful not only when life is beginning or everything is going right, but also when something is coming to an end.
Maybe that is why Chhath feels so different from many other festivals. There are no elaborate decorations needed. No grand celebrations are necessary.
Just a river, the setting sun, a basket of offerings, generations-old traditions and millions of people carrying the same prayer in their hearts.
For many devotees, Chhath isn’t simply about worshipping the Sun. It is about thanking nature, honouring Chhathi Maiya and praying for the people they love.
