Chaurchan Puja is a type of Hindu puja performed on a special day. It is an important fasting tradition of the Mithila region, which is essential for married women. It is also known as Charchanna Pabni, Chauth Chand, Chauth Chandra or Chourchan Puja. This puja is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Moon God and holds religious significance.

Married women observe fast on this day. Different Prasad are prepared. Ganesh Chaturthi fast is also observed at this time. Apart from Lord Ganesha, people also worship Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati and Moon Goddess. On the day of Chaurchan Puja, families wake up early and gather around an especially prepared puja area. The main deities worshipped during this festival are Mother Nature (represented as Maa Bhagwati), Sun God (Surya Dev), and Lord Vishnu.

Devotees offer fruits, vegetables, freshly harvested grains, and other agricultural products to these deities. Chaurchan Puja is not just about rituals; it is also a time for cultural celebrations. Communities organize folk songs, dances, and traditional dramas to add vibrancy to the festivities. The atmosphere is filled with music, dance, and laughter.

A significant part of Chaurchan Puja involves feasting on traditional dishes made from newly harvested crops. People prepare delicious meals using vegetables, lentils, and grains that are part of the day's offerings. The festival strengthens the bonds within the community. Neighbours and friends exchange gifts and visit each other's homes to partake in the celebrations, further promoting a sense of unity.

Chaurchan Puja 2023 Dos and Don'ts

  • Fast is observed from morning till evening. Women observe this fast for the long life of their sons.

  • It is lucky to prepare rangoli by grinding raw rice, and the courtyard is decorated with this rangoli.

  • People also make circular moon with the help of banana leaves.

  • The Moon in the Rohini Nakshatra is worshipped on Chaturthi, facing west.

  • Based on the number of people in the house, vessels filled with dishes and curd.

  • One by one, the mantras are chanted by picking up the branch, vessel of curd, banana kheer, etc., in the hands.

  • On this day, one should not consume non-vegetarian food, nor should one consume intoxicants.

  • After breaking the fast in the evening, one should eat only satvik food.

  • Donating Dakshina on this day is considered very auspicious; hence, one should donate to the poor as per one's wish.

  • Chaurchan should be worshipped with complete rituals.

Chaurchan Puja is a celebration and a testament to the deep connection between its people and the land they cultivate. It is a time for expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, and rejoicing in the abundance that nature provides. As the communities come together to celebrate the harvest, Chaurchan Puja not only nourishes the body but also nurtures the spirit of unity, harmony, and gratitude among all who partake in its festivities.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 19, 2023 01:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).