Hal Shashthi 2024: The Divine Saga of the Fast for the Longevity and Prosperity of Children

When the earth perfumes nature with its rich, loamy fragrance and a mother's heart is immersed in prayer for her child, the sacred festival of Hal Shashthi arrives. Also known as Lalahi Chhath or Chandan Chhath, this festival is not merely a fast but a celebration of reverence for the son of the soil, Lord Balaram and the unwavering devotion of motherhood. Lord Balaram's primary weapon is the 'Hal' (plow), a symbol of agriculture and prosperity. This festival, named after him, reminds us that a mother's love is as fertile and life-giving as the earth itself, protecting her child from every adversity.

Hal Shashthi 2024: Date of the Fast and Auspicious Timings

Every year, the fast of Hal Chhath is observed on the Shashthi tithi (sixth lunar day) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the Bhadrapada month. This year, there is some uncertainty regarding the date, which needs to be understood according to the Panchang:

• Shashthi Tithi Begins: 12:30 PM on August 24, 2024, Saturday.
• Shashthi Tithi Ends: 10:11 AM on August 25, 2024, Sunday.

On Which Day Should the Fast Be Observed?

The worship for Hal Shashthi is traditionally performed in the afternoon. According to the Panchang, the Shashthi tithi begins in the afternoon of August 24, which is a suitable time for the puja. Although the Udayatithi (the tithi at sunrise) is on August 25, the Shashthi tithi ends at 10:11 AM on that day. Therefore, for women who perform the worship in the afternoon, Saturday, August 24, 2024, will be the most scripturally appropriate and superior day.

Significance of Hal Shashthi Vrat

The greatest significance of this fast is linked to the protection and long life of one's children. The children of mothers who observe this fast receive the blessings of Lord Balaram, which keeps them safe from diseases, fear and all kinds of misfortunes. This fast not only protects the children but also brings happiness, peace and prosperity to the family.

Simple and Scriptural Method of the Fast

The worship on this day is deeply connected to nature and its rules are also special:

1. Morning Rituals: On this day, women who are fasting wake up early and take a bath. The tradition of using a datun (twig) from the Mahua tree for brushing has special significance.
2. Preparation of the Worship Area: A sacred space known as a 'Chauk' is prepared in the courtyard or worship area of the house by plastering it with cow dung.
3. Symbolic Worship: On this Chauk, a symbol of Lord Balaram's weapon, the 'Hal' (plow), is made and he is worshipped with proper rituals.
4. Special Worship Materials: Offerings for the puja include turmeric, rice and various types of grains (that are grown without the use of a plow).
5. Dietary Rules: It is forbidden to eat anything that has been cultivated using a plow on this day. Fasting women consume only those fruits and grains that grow on their own, such as 'Pasahi rice'. Buffalo milk and ghee are used.

The Sacred Stories of Hal Shashthi Vrat

Two prevalent stories associated with this fast illustrate its importance:

The Story of Lord Balaram's Birth

According to one legend, before the birth of Lord Balaram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna, his mother Rohini observed this fast for his safety and well-being. It was due to the effect of this fast that Lord Balaram was blessed with immense strength, power and a long life.

The Story of the Milkmaid

Another story is very poignant and educational. There was a milkmaid (Gwalin) who made her living by selling milk and curd. Once, while she was pregnant and on her way to sell milk, she went into labor. She gave birth to a son under a Jharberi (wild berry) tree. Worried that her milk would spoil, she left her newborn son sleeping under the tree and went to a nearby village to sell her milk.

That day was the fast of Hal Chhath and everyone needed buffalo milk. But the milkmaid, driven by greed, passed off cow's milk as buffalo's milk and sold it. Her dishonesty greatly angered the deity Chhath Mata, who took the life of her son. When the milkmaid returned and found her son lifeless, she wept inconsolably. She realized her mistake. She confessed her wrongdoing in front of everyone and begged for forgiveness from Chhath Mata. Pleased with her sincere repentance, Chhath Mata revived her son. Ever since then, this fast is observed with great devotion for the long life of sons.

The Unbreakable Bond of Motherhood and Faith

The festival of Hal Shashthi teaches us that there is immense power in a mother's prayer. This fast is not just a religious ritual but a symbol of respect for nature, honesty and motherhood. The worship performed on this day and the fast observed with true faith act as a protective shield in a child's life, saving them from every crisis.