What is Chaurchan and why does Mithila worship the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi
By Pt. Amitabh Sharma
A folk tradition of Mithila where the moon is welcomed with faith and festivity not fear
Table of Contents
On the night of Bhadon Chaturthi when most parts of India avoid looking at the moon the courtyards of Mithila shine like a festival ground. The fragrance of kheer and puris fills the air women sing hymns children run in joy and aripan glow in every courtyard. This is Chaurchan a celebration that will take place on 27 August 2025.
How does Chaurchan begin in Mithila homes
The magic of this festival begins in the kitchen. From early morning families prepare kheer puris fruits and local delicacies. Plates are exchanged among neighbours so that no one eats alone. It is not just fasting but a celebration of sharing and unity.
The role of courtyards and aripan
As dusk falls courtyards transform into living canvases. Artistic aripan patterns made with clay and rice paste adorn the earth. Lamps shine brightly children laugh and elder women chant prayers. When the moon rises everyone steps out with decorated plates to offer arghya.
Why does Mithila worship the moon when others avoid it
According to legend the moon once mocked Ganesha. Angered Ganesha cursed that anyone who looked at the moon on Bhadon Chaturthi would face false accusations. Even Krishna once suffered from this curse during the Syamantaka jewel episode.
But Mithila turned fear into faith. Here the moon is not seen as tainted but as a symbol of light calmness and blessing. Some folk traditions even connect it to Sage Gautam’s curse during Ahalya’s tale later redeemed by Lord Ram’s grace.
Historical roots of Chaurchan
Folk tradition recalls King Hemangad Thakur of the sixteenth century. His queen Hemlata once viewed the blemished moon and initiated its public worship. This became a community practice and Chaurchan grew as a cultural identity of Mithila.
Essentials for the celebration
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Clay and rice paste | To draw aripan |
| Water milk flowers and lamp | For arghya |
| Kheer puris fruits | As prasad |
| Plates and baskets | To share with neighbours |
Chaurchan as a symbol of pride
When the world turns away from the moon Mithila proudly worships it. Chaurchan is not just worship but a declaration of identity. It binds families strengthens neighbourly ties and fills courtyards with devotion and joy.
FAQs
Q1. What links Chaurchan with Ganesh Chaturthi?
A1. Both fall on the same lunar date. While others avoid moon sighting Mithila offers arghya to the moon.
Q2. Is fasting mandatory?
A2. Families follow their own traditions. Many keep a light fast and eat prasad only after moonrise.
Q3. Why are aripan drawn?
A3. Aripan purify the ground and welcome celestial energies. They also pass on art and tradition to children.
Q4. Can outsiders join the celebration?
A4. Yes. Chaurchan is inclusive. Guests are welcomed and offered prasad.
Q5. What is the central message of Chaurchan?
A5. It teaches that life must be lived through faith joy and sharing not fear.
