Chhath Puja, a popular Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, is celebrated with deep devotion and reverence, especially in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It is a four-day-long festival that includes fasting, offering prayers, and presenting offerings to the Sun God. Every ritual in Chhath Puja has a symbolic meaning, and following Vastu Shastra, the ancient science of directions, can enhance the positive effects of the puja. Using the right directions for offerings, decorations, and placements during Chhath Puja helps maintain a spiritual balance and attracts prosperity.

Understanding the Role of Directions in Vastu Shastra

Vastu Shastra is the ancient Indian practice of architecture and design that emphasizes harmony between nature and human beings. According to Vastu principles, each direction is associated with specific energies that can influence various aspects of life. In Chhath Puja, where devotion and spiritual energy play a crucial role, following Vastu directions for setting up the puja area, placing offerings, and organizing decorations can bring more peace and positivity.

Key Directions in Chhath Puja

In Chhath Puja, offerings and prayers are dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya (the mother goddess). Following Vastu directions for placements can maximize the rituals' spiritual benefits.

East Direction

The East direction is very important in Chhath Puja as it represents the Sun, the deity being worshipped. The Sun rises from the East, bringing light, energy, and life. Therefore, the main offerings should be placed facing the East, where devotees can pray during sunrise and sunset. By facing East, devotees can absorb the energy of the rising and setting Sun, which symbolizes new beginnings and strength.

West Direction

On the evening of the third day of Chhath Puja, the Arghya (offering of water and other items to the Sun) is performed facing the West. This direction is suitable for evening prayers as it represents the setting of the Sun, a symbol of gratitude and completion. Arranging the evening offerings facing the West honours the cycle of the day and invites peace and closure. Place offerings and other items used for evening Arghya toward the West to create a balanced spiritual atmosphere.

North Direction

The North direction in Vastu Shastra is associated with health and prosperity. For Chhath Puja, items like fruits, flowers, and other offerings should be placed in the North direction of the prayer area. North-facing placements are believed to enhance blessings from the Sun God, as the North is associated with positivity, growth, and health.

South Direction

The South is typically associated with stability but is generally avoided for religious rituals in Vastu. If you organize the decorations for Chhath Puja, such as placing earthen lamps (diya) or arranging the baskets, avoid the South direction as it may not align with the positive energies required for spiritual practices. Instead, reserve this direction for items unrelated to the prayer, such as storage baskets or other supporting items.

Placing Offerings According to Vastu

Each item used in Chhath Puja holds spiritual significance, and their placement can influence the overall impact of the puja

.

●Water Container: The water container or pitcher used to offer water to the Sun should ideally be kept in the East direction. This setup allows the devotee to easily pour water toward the rising Sun, symbolizing the flow of energy and life.

●Bamboo Basket: This basket contains fruits, sweets, and other offerings for the Sun God. It should ideally be kept facing the East or North direction, as these directions are considered highly auspicious and conducive to positive vibrations.

●Diya (Earthen Lamp): The diya, representing light and clarity, should be placed facing East or North during the morning puja. In the evening, when offering the Arghya to the setting Sun, place the diya facing West to align with the setting Sun's energy. This practice promotes peace and dispels any negative energies.

●Puja Decor and Garlands: Decorative items, including garlands, can be placed around the prayer area but should be in the North or East directions. Avoid placing them in the South, as it is not considered ideal for decorations meant to enhance spiritual energy.

Decorating the Puja Area According to Vastu

Creating a harmonious and clean puja space is essential for Chhath Puja. Following these Vastu tips can add to the positive energy of the area:

●Cleanliness: Keep the prayer area clean, especially in the East and North directions. Clean spaces attract positive energy and create a sacred environment for worship.

●Colour Scheme: Use yellow, red, and green flowers, which are vibrant and symbolize positivity and prosperity. Arrange the flowers in the East direction to welcome the morning Sun.

●Arrangement of Items: Place heavy items in the Southwest corner if possible, and keep lighter items in the North and East. This arrangement helps balance the energy flow in the puja area.

Chhath Puja is a time to express gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth. Following Vastu's directions for placing offerings and decorations can help create a balanced and spiritually uplifting environment. Facing the East for morning Arghya, using the West for evening offerings, and placing items in the North direction for prosperity can enhance the spiritual benefits of Chhath Puja.

By honouring the importance of Vastu in this way, devotees can create a harmonious space that aligns with the energies of the festival, bringing blessings, peace, and positivity into their lives.

Written By: Mahi Kashyap, CEO & Founder of Vedic Meet