What is Sandhya Arghya?
Sandhya Arghya is the evening offering made to the setting Sun on the third day of Chhath. Vratis and families gather near clean water with bamboo baskets containing fruits, thekua, sugarcane and other offerings prepared according to family custom.
Why worship the setting Sun?
Chhath honours both the setting and rising Sun. The evening offering recognises completion, humility and gratitude—not only beginnings and visible success. It is a powerful reminder to bow before every phase of life.
At the ghat
Devotees commonly stand in the water as the Sun approaches the horizon. Lamps are lit, folk songs are sung, and Arghya is offered with water. The atmosphere may be large and communal, yet the act itself remains intimate: a family prayer carried across generations.
For 15 November 2026, use the sunset time for your exact city. Arrive early, follow local safety arrangements and keep the water and ghat free from litter.
From dusk to dawn
After returning from the evening observance, families prepare for Usha Arghya. Before sunrise they gather again, completing the festival in the first light of morning.
Sources and editorial note
Festival dates and shared traditions are checked against public cultural references from the Ministry of Tourism’s Incredible India portal and Bihar Tourism. Practices vary by household and location, so experienced vratis, family elders and a trusted local Panchang should guide ritual details and local Arghya times.
Reviewed and updated 26 September 2026 · Read our editorial policy
Let devotion continue in song
Return to Chhath Dhun for sacred melodies and the live countdown to Sandhya Arghya.
Listen to Chhath songs