What is Randhan Chhath?
Randhan Chhath is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated primarily in Gujarat and some parts of western India. It falls on the sixth day (Chhath) of Shravan Vad (Krishna Paksha)—one day before Shitala Satam. On this day, devotees cook food with purity and devotion, which is then consumed the next day on Shitala Satam as prasad.
Significance
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Dedicated to Goddess Shitala, who is believed to protect from diseases and purify the household.
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Food cooked on this day is not consumed immediately, but kept as offerings for the next day.
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Marks a spiritual cleanse and symbolic control over desires (as the food is made but not eaten).
Rituals
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The kitchen is cleaned thoroughly and pure satvik food is prepared early in the day.
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Use of tamarind, garlic, and onion is generally avoided.
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The food is cooked with prayers and devotion, and stored safely for offering on Shitala Satam.
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No fire or cooking is allowed on the next day, so this day becomes important for meal preparation.
Cultural Insight
Randhan Chhath is more than just cooking; it is an act of mindful service, discipline, and devotion towards health, hygiene, and the divine.