Chhath Puja, which is spread over four days, is dedicated to
Surya, the sun god and Agni (fire) and Lord Kartik. The second day is known as
Kharna and a complete fast is observed by men and women. Kharna Fasting 2023 during Chhath puja is on November 18.
Kharna is observed from sunrise to sunset. It is a complete
fast with some devotees even not taking water during the fasting period. The
fast should not be undertaken by pregnant women, devotees having health
problems and older people.
Some people opt for partial fast and drink lot of water and
eat fruits. Some people eat salt-less food. Sabudana khichadi and vrat foods are
also eaten on the day.
The Kharna fast is broken after performing a puja at home in the
evening. The puja is dedicated to Surya, Kartik, Agni (fire god) and Chhathi
Maiya.
Kheer, sweets and fruits are offered to deities and then the
whole family shares it as prasad.
For many devotees, another round of fasting begins after the
prasad is shared. This fast is usually broken on the fourth day morning - after Dala Chhath Suryodaya Argh Puja - the morning puja dedicated to Sun God.