As the four-day-long Chhath festival begins, preparations in households observing the ancient tradition are in full swing. The festival, which is regarded as one of the most rigorous and spiritually significant in Hinduism, will culminate with the offering of prayers to the rising sun on October 28. While several rituals mark this festival dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun) and Chhathi Maiya, one element remains indispensable; the traditional prasad, Thekua. (News18 Gujarati)
Considered the most revered offering of Chhath Puja, Thekua holds a special place in both religious customs and household sentiments. No ritual of this festival is deemed complete without this sacred offering, believed to be the favourite of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. (News18 Gujarati)
The observance of Chhath begins with Nahay-Khay, followed by Kharna and concludes with Usha Arghya, the offering to the rising sun. Throughout these rituals, especially on the day of Sandhya Arghya (evening offering), devotees prepare Thekua with great devotion and purity. According to scriptures and local traditions, it is offered to seek good fortune, prosperity and blessings for children. (News18 Gujarati)
Prepared using simple ingredients like whole-wheat flour, jaggery and ghee, Thekua is traditionally cooked on a clay stove. Devotees ensure strict cleanliness and sanctity during its preparation, as it is not merely a sweet snack but a sacred bhog for the divine. Religious beliefs hold that Chhath Maiya is pleased by this offering and bestows happiness, peace and prosperity upon households. Many devotees also believe that offering Thekua with a pure heart brings fulfilment of desires and protection from hardships. (News18 Gujarati)
For generations, Thekua has been a symbol of faith, devotion and cultural identity. As families across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Gujarat and Maharashtra observe the rituals this year, the fragrance of freshly made Thekua once again becomes a reminder of unwavering devotion and time-honoured tradition. Chhath Puja, therefore, is not just a festival of austerity and worship, but also a celebration of the sacred bond between the devotee, nature and the divine, with Thekua at its heart. (News18 Gujarati)
