Randhan Chhath is an important day in the Gujarati calendar and serves as a precursor to Shitala Satam. While not a standalone festival, Randhan Chhath plays a crucial role in the preparations for Shitala Satam, which is dedicated to Goddess Shitala Devi. On Shitala Satam, all forms of cooking are prohibited, so families use Randhan Chhath to prepare meals in advance. The name 'Randhan Chhath' translates to 'cooking on the sixth day,' reflecting the day’s significance in meal preparation. August 2024 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates in August. 

Randhan Chhath 2024 Date and Shubh Muhurat

Randhan Chhath is observed on August 24, 2024, marking the day before Shitala Satam. Shitala Satam occurs on the Krishna Paksha Saptami during the month of Shravana in the Hindu calendar, making Randhan Chhath a day prior, specifically on the Chhath day.

Randhan Chhath Significance

Randhan Chhath, also known as Randhan Chhat, is observed in the month of Bhadrapad, a time known for various religious observances in Sanatan Dharma. This month features numerous important dates and festivals, including Janmashtami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, and Balram Jayanti, marking the birthday of Krishna’s elder brother, Balram. Randhan Chhath is recognised for its focus on cooking and meal preparation, setting the stage for the following day’s religious observance.

Randhan Chhath: Observances and Traditions

  • Preparation Day: Randhan Chhath is primarily a day for preparing food for Shitala Satam, when cooking is not allowed. Families cook a variety of dishes on this day, which are then consumed cold on Shitala Satam.

  • Cooking Restrictions: On Shitala Satam, it is customary not to light stoves or cook food. Therefore, the meal preparation done on Randhan Chhath ensures that families have ready-to-eat food for the following day’s worship.

  • Customs in Gujarat: In Gujarat, Randhan Chhath is celebrated with particular emphasis on preparing diverse dishes. It is a day associated with the culinary traditions and is crucial for ensuring that the next day’s observances go smoothly.

  • Worship of Shitala Mata: On Shitala Satam, the focus is on worshiping Shitala Mata, the goddess believed to protect children. To honour this tradition, families avoid cooking on this day, and the cold food prepared on Randhan Chhath is consumed after the day’s religious activities.

Randhan Chhath: Rituals, Dos and Don’ts

  • Fasting and Meal Preparation: Ensure that all cooking is completed on Randhan Chhath, as cooking is prohibited on Shitala Satam. Prepare a variety of dishes in advance and store them properly.

  • Religious Observance: On Shitala Satam, participate in the worship of Shitala Mata. Avoid lighting stoves and consuming freshly cooked food on this day.

  • Community and Family Traditions: Engage in community practices and family traditions related to Randhan Chhath, reflecting its role in both religious observance and culinary preparation.

Randhan Chhath is a day dedicated to preparation and reverence, ensuring that the following day’s worship of Shitala Mata is carried out smoothly and in accordance with tradition.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 22, 2024 08:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).