Har Chhath 2021: History, significance and pooja time

Har Chhath, which is celebrated two days before Krishna Janmashtami, is on Saturday. Har Chhath marks the birth of Lord Balram, the elder brother of Lord Shri Krishna. Har Chhath or Har Shasti is observed on the shashti (6th day of Krishna Paksha), the waning phase of the moon, during the month of Bhadrapada in the traditional Hindu calendar. It is believed that Krishna’s elder brother, who was an avatar of Sheshnaag was born on this day.

The day is celebrated with fervour and devotees observe fast to attain Lord Balaram and Krishna’s blessings. The main weapon of Balaram is a plow and hence, devotees who observe fast on this day are prohibited from eating anything that has been plowed.

Also Read: Krishna Janmashtami vrat: Importance, do’s and don’ts

History Har Chaath 2021 date and time

Harr Shashti starts August 27, 2021 at 6:49 pm and ends on August 28, 2021, at 8:57 pm.

Har Chhath: History and significance

The festival celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Balaram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Balaram is believed to be an avatar of Sheshnaag, who is associated with Lord Vishnu.

Balaram used farm equipment plough as his weapon, it has a strong association with farmers and farming, therefore Har Chhath is celebrated by farmers with great zeal and gaiety.

It is also believed that during Mahabharata, the baby of Uttara, wife of Abhimanyu, was killed inside her womb. After this, Lord Krishna advised Uttara to observe Shashti vrat with devotion. This saved her child and therefore, it is believed that this vrat is observed for progeny.

Har Chhath: Pooja

Har Chaath rituals are mainly performed by women for the good health of the children. Other rituals include.

* Taking bath before sunrise and prepare for Lalhi Chhath puja.

*  The place of worship is cleaned and cow dung is applied.

* A small well is prepared and worshipped with Satavya,
which is a combination of seven grains.

* The weapon of Balaram is plough, so a resembling structure
with straw grass stem and palaash is made and worshipped.

* Six small earthen pots filled with grains for every child
is kept at puja place and worshipped.

* They recite Hal Shashti vrat katha.