Chhath Puja is not just a festival of faith and belief, but it also tests the patience and physical stamina of the fasting women. This year Chhath Puja will be celebrated from 13 November to 16 November 2026. In this festival which lasts for four days, the fasting person has to follow many difficult rules. Especially the Nirjala fast of about 36 hours that starts after Kharna is quite challenging. During this period, women neither eat anything nor drink water.
This fast, which begins after receiving Prasad on the second day of Kharna, is completed on the fourth day after offering Arghya to the rising Sun. In such a situation, between household responsibilities, preparations for puja and going to the ghat, women often ignore their health. Do not compromise on your sleep during this fast. Also, don't do all the work yourself.
Prepare your body before fasting
It is very important to prepare the body before starting the Nirjala fast of Chhath. Many times women start eating more just before fasting, which is not the right way. Instead of this, eat a balanced diet during Nahay-Khay and Kharna. Include fruits, vegetables, pulses and adequate liquids in your diet. Do not let your body become dehydrated before starting the fast. However, avoid drinking more water than necessary at one go.
Don't insist on doing everything yourself
There are many responsibilities during Chhath like cleaning the house, making prasad, preparing for puja and going to the ghat. In such situations, women often forget to rest. Continuous work can quickly deplete the body's energy. Therefore take help from other members of the house. Complete the important tasks beforehand and take rest in between. It is not necessary to take every responsibility alone.
Don't compromise on sleep and rest.
It is also important to get adequate rest during the fast. Many women prepare for the puja late at night and wake up early in the morning. This may increase fatigue. Try to get good sleep before starting the fast. Even during puja, whenever you get a chance, sit and rest for some time.
Be careful of sunlight and cold water
During Chhath Puja, women often have to stand at the ghat for a long time. In such a situation, pressure on the body can increase due to strong sunlight, cold water and crowd. Wear clothes according to the weather and be careful in slippery places. If you feel weak, do not go to the ghat alone.
Do not hurry immediately after Parana.
The fast is completed after offering Arghya to the rising sun, but this does not mean that women should immediately start eating heavy food. After being hungry and thirsty for a long time, the body needs time to return to normal state. Therefore, during Parana, drink water slowly and eat light food. Eating too much at once can cause stomach problems.
Don't ignore body signals
If symptoms like severe dizziness, fainting, confusion, extreme weakness or abnormal heartbeat appear during the fast, then do not ignore them as normal fatigue. In such a situation, seek medical help immediately. Women suffering from diabetes, kidney disease or other health problems and pregnant women must consult a doctor before observing Nirjala fast.