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Chhath Pooja 2024: While women typically apply red sindoor daily, during Chhath festival, they opt for orange sindoor from the head to nose. The choice is significant, as the orange sindoor is associated with Lord Hanuman
It is believed that this long line of sindoor will ensure a long life for their husbands. (News18)
Chhath Puja, also known as Chhath Mahaparv, is an ancient Hindu festival primarily celebrated in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and West Bengal. This festival is dedicated to the Sun and Chhathi Maiyya, who is believed to be the sister of Surya Devta.
During this four-day-long festival, women observe a 36-hour nirjala (waterless) fast and offer arghya to the Sun. This year, Chhath Mahaparv will be observed from November 5 to 8.
One notable ritual during Chhath Puja is the application of sindoor (vermillion) by women. It is often seen that women apply orange sindoor down till the nose, as it is considered auspicious for vermilion to touch the nose.
But why do women apply the sindoor in this manner? Bhopal-based astrologer and Vastu consultant Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma explains the significance behind this ritual.
Reason behind Chhath Pooja Celebration
According to religious beliefs, the tradition of celebrating Chhath Festival began when Lord Ram and Sita returned to Ayodhya after their exile. During this time, people fasted in their honour, leading to the establishment of this festival. On Chhath, the Sun is worshipped and arghya is offered. Women perform various rituals and take a dip in the river.
Significance of Sindoor
On Chhath festival, women apply sindoor from their forehead to the nose, symbolising the redness of the Sun. It is believed that this long line of sindoor will ensure a long life for their husbands. By performing this ritual, they seek the blessings of Chhath Mata, hoping to attain happiness and prosperity.
Why only orange Sindoor?
While women typically apply red sindoor daily, during Chhath festival, they opt for orange sindoor. The choice is significant, as orange sindoor is associated with Lord Hanuman, who was a celibate. After marriage, the bride’s celibacy vow ends, marking the beginning of her married life. This practice is not only prevalent in Bihar and Jharkhand but is also observed in many other regions.
