India, Nov. 13 -- Chhath Puja 2026 begins on Friday, November 13, with devotees observing Nahay Khay, the first ritual of the four-day Hindu festival dedicated to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. The celebrations will continue until November 16, when devotees will offer prayers to the rising Sun and conclude their fast with Parana.

Primarily associated with Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja is also celebrated with great devotion in several other parts of India. The festival is marked by strict fasting, traditional food preparations, prayers at rivers and water bodies, and offerings to the setting and rising Sun.

Also known as Surya Shashti, Chhath, Chhathi, Chhath Parv and Dala Chhath, the festival is observed during K...