Kharna in Chhath Puja: Meaning, Fast and Evening Prasad

What is Kharna?

Kharna, also called Lohanda, is the second day of Chhath. After a day-long fast, the vrati performs evening worship and offers prasad. In many traditions this is followed by the beginning of the demanding nirjala phase of the vrat.

The evening meal and prasad

Rasiyao or gud ki kheer, roti and fruit are widely associated with Kharna. Preparation is treated with great care, and the prasad is first offered in worship before it is received and shared. Exact foods and methods can differ, so household tradition remains the best guide.

Silence, patience and community

Kharna is often remembered for its stillness. While relatives may help clean, arrange ingredients and receive prasad, the vrati’s discipline remains central. The day turns hunger into attention and preparation into prayer.

People with medical conditions, older adults and pregnant devotees should seek appropriate medical advice before undertaking any strict or waterless fast.

What follows

The next day is Sandhya Arghya, when families carry daura and soop to a river, pond or prepared ghat to honour the setting Sun.