☀️ Festivals
Chhath Puja 2026: Dates, Four-Day Schedule and Respectful Practice
A practical Chhath Puja 2026 guide: Nahay Khay on 13 November, Kharna on 14 November, Sandhya Arghya on 15 November, and Usha Arghya on 16 November.
Chhath Puja is on Sunday, 15 November 2026 in India-based panchang listings. The four-day observance honours Surya, the Sun, and Chhathi Maiya through preparation, fasting for those who choose and are able, and offerings at sunset and sunrise. Chhath is especially rooted in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, Nepal’s Madhesh region, and diaspora communities, though its spirit of gratitude for light, water, food, and life is widely understood.
Chhath Puja 2026 four-day schedule
| Date | Day | Common observance |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, 13 November | Nahay Khay | Preparation, bathing, and a simple first meal |
| Saturday, 14 November | Lohanda / Kharna | Evening worship and preparation for the main offerings |
| Sunday, 15 November | Chhath Puja / Sandhya Arghya | Offering to the setting sun |
| Monday, 16 November | Usha Arghya / Parana | Offering to the rising sun and completion of the fast |
The dates are based on India calendar listings. Sunrise, sunset, riverbank arrangements, and exact offering times are local, so confirm them with a trusted city-specific panchang or community organiser.
What the four days mean
The first two days prepare the person, household, and offerings with care. On the third day, devotees offer arghya to the setting sun; on the fourth, they offer it to the rising sun and complete the observance. Customs concerning fasting, prasad, clothing, and the preparation of thekua or other offerings are held with great care in families that observe Chhath. Visitors and newcomers should follow local guidance rather than inventing a ritual sequence from a general checklist.
For context and a home-friendly overview, read the Chhath Puja story and significance and the Chhath Puja vidhi and prayer guide.
A respectful way to participate
You do not need to fast to honour the festival. Help clean a shared space, support an elder who is observing, bring water safely, reduce plastic waste near a river or pond, listen to the songs, or make a simple prayer of gratitude at sunrise. A short Surya Mantra can accompany a quiet morning reflection. Never look directly at the sun.
Fasting can be demanding. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone managing a medical condition or medication should make a health-informed decision and follow professional advice. Devotion is not measured by unsafe self-denial.
Frequently asked questions
What date is Chhath Puja in 2026?
The main Chhath Puja and Sandhya Arghya fall on Sunday, 15 November 2026 in India-based calendar listings.
When is Usha Arghya in 2026?
Usha Arghya and parana fall on Monday, 16 November 2026, after the sunrise offering.
When does Chhath Puja 2026 begin?
The four-day sequence begins with Nahay Khay on Friday, 13 November 2026.
Can I observe Chhath at home?
Family and regional tradition are important. A quiet home prayer or supportive participation is possible, but the formal observance and water offerings should follow trusted local guidance and safety practices.
See the Diwali 2026 schedule and the autumn Hindu festivals 2026 guide for the wider November season.