Explanation: Chhat puja is a significant and unique festival celebrated primarily in the state of Bihar and parts of eastern India. The festival is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and his wife, Usha, and is observed over four days. The rituals associated with Chhat puja are rigorous and involve fasting, holy bathing, and offering prayers to the Sun. The festival is celebrated twice a year, once in the month of Chaitra (March-April) and again in the month of Kartik (October-November).
The main reason Chhat puja is considered the main festival of Bihar is due to its deep-rooted cultural and religious significance. The festival is not only a celebration of the Sun God but also a way to express gratitude for the bountiful harvest and the blessings of the Sun. The rituals performed during Chhat puja are unique and distinct from other major Hindu festivals, making it a significant part of the cultural identity of Bihar.
During the festival, devotees, especially women, observe a strict fast and perform rituals at the banks of rivers, particularly the Ganges. The rituals include offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, which is believed to cleanse the soul and bring prosperity and good health. The festival is also associated with the legend of Surya and his son, Karna, who was a great warrior in the epic Mahabharata.
While other festivals like Durga Puja, Holi, and Diwali are celebrated in Bihar, they do not hold the same cultural and religious significance as Chhat puja. Durga Puja, for instance, is more prominent in West Bengal, and Holi and Diwali are celebrated across India but do not have the same level of cultural importance in Bihar as Chhat puja does.
In conclusion, Chhat puja is the main festival of Bihar due to its unique rituals, cultural significance, and the deep devotion of the people of Bihar towards the Sun God. The festival is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the state and is an integral part of the social and religious fabric of Bihar.