Chhath Puja 2026: Why Do We Give Arghya To Setting And Rising Sun? Know The Real Meaning

Chhath Puja is one of the most beautiful and difficult festivals of India. For four days, devotees stand in rivers, ponds, and ghats, fasting without water and offering to Surya Dev. But there is one question that comes to mind: Why do we give Arghya to setting first and then the rising sun? 

The anwer lies in the deep philosophy of Chhath. 

Chhath Puja 2026: Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya

In Chhath Puja, there are mainly two Arghyas:

Sandhya Arghya: Evening Arghya to the Setting Sun

Offered on the third day of Chhath, in the evening, when the sun is setting.

Usha Arghya: Morning Arghya to the Rising Sun

Offered on the fourth day of Chhath, in the morning when the sun the rising. 

Both of the arghyas are important, one is complete without the other. 

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Why Do We Worship The Setting Sun First?

In Hindu beliefs, the setting sun is a symbol of gratitude. Before asking for a new day, we thank the sun for the light, energy, food and life it gave us. Therefore, giving arghyas to setting sun teaches us to first say thank you.

Also, setting sun reminds us that life is not always about success and sunrise. There are evenings, failures, sadness and endings too. Chhath respects both. Worship the sun even when it is going down. 

According to scriptures, it is said the the Sun god has two wives, Usha (morning) and Pratyusha (evening). In Chhath, both of forms are worshipped. Sandhya Arghya is for Pratyusha, and Usha Arghya is for Usha. This is why Chhath is unique it honours both the beginning and the end.

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Why Do We Worship Rising Sun?

The morning Arghya is a symbol of hope, new beginnings and new life. After 36 hours of nirjala fast, when the devotee sees the first rays of the rising sun, and it feels like rebirth. It is believed that the rising sun gives health, wealth, long life and fulfils wishes, especially for children. That is why mothers observe this tough fast for the well-being of their children.

The Scientific Meaning Behind Chhath Puja Arghya

During the Chhath Puja, when women stand in water and offer Arghya, their body absorbs the sun’s rays directly. In the evening and early morning, the sun’s ultraviolet rays are less harmful and more beneficial.

It is said that standing in water during Arghya helps in detoxification, improves blood circulation, calms the mind and boosts Vitamin D. The cold water, the early morning air and the focus on the sun together work like meditation.

Conclusion

In Chhath, there is no priest, no idol, no caste difference. Rich or poor, everyone stands in the same water, offers the same Arghya, and eats the same prasad. It is one of the most democratic festivals of India. Therefore, this Chhath Puja 2026, when you offer Arghya, remember you are not just worshipping the sun; you are thanking the past and welcoming the future.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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