*The views expressed in the blog are those of the author.

Everything, from the culture and values to customs, rituals and traditions, is ‘special’ in this ‘Land of Gods’.

Since childhood I have been watching my grandparents and then parents offering water to the sun god and chanting mantras. One day I happened to ask my father as to why he offers water to the sun. My father then explained me the significance of the sun and narrated me its essence which I would like to share with everyone. Since then, I also started worshipping the sun god.

He started with Chhath Puja being the most important festival of Bihar and its neighbouring states like Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. I got the opportunity to stay in Patna for more than fifteen years and has developed an affinity and faith for this festival.

Every year, the Chhath Puja festival commences with oblation to the setting sun and concludes with the rising sun. The festival runs for four days. My father told me that the devotees thank the sun god for the life on earth and pray for wealth, prosperity and good health for their family members. It is believed that the people who fast during the Chatt puja and take a dip into the river Ganga are granted their wishes.

Then he told me about another festival ‘Makar Sankranti’ that is also dedicated to lord Surya (the Sun). It is believed that on this day the sun transits into Makara (Capricorn), marking the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. People worship the Sun God, prepare sweets with Sesame seeds and Jaggery and fly kites. In other parts of India, it is known by different names such as  Pongal, Sankranti, Magha, Môkôr Sôngkrānti, Megha Mela, Maghi, Lohri. He further added saying that the sun is the only god that is omnipresent and could be seen unlike other gods whom we have either fantasized about or known by the description given in the Vedas.

He remarked – “According to Astrology, the planet, Saturn, rules the zodiac sign Capricorn. And this planet is believed to be Surya Dev’s (Lord Sun’s) son. In short, this means that during this time, the Sun comes to stay with His Son. This period also signifies letting go of any grudges and quarrels. Different parts of the country celebrate the festival in myriad cultural forms. There are innumerable examples to cite that the customs, traditions passed from generations are indeed what we need to learn and adapt in our lifestyle.

So, we see that tradition and culture play a pivot role in the life of people. It is upon us to believe or not and follow the same for eternal peace and satisfaction.

The Sun Lord! Lead me from darkness to Light.

-Nandini Sharma, TGT (English)

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