Randhan Chhath is a traditional festival celebrated primarily in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is observed on the day before Shitala Satam, usually falling in the Shravan month of the Hindu lunar calendar (July/August).
Significance:
- Cultural and Religious: Randhan Chhath is dedicated to the goddess Shitala Mata, who is believed to protect devotees from heat-related diseases and smallpox. The festival involves preparing food a day in advance, as cooking is prohibited on the following day, Shitala Satam.
- Preparation for Shitala Satam: Since cooking is not allowed on Shitala Satam, Randhan Chhath is the day when households prepare various dishes that can be consumed cold or at room temperature the next day.
Traditions:
- Cooking: Women in the family prepare a variety of traditional dishes, including puris, sweets, and other delicacies, which are to be eaten on Shitala Satam.
- Community and Family Bonding: The day is also an occasion for families to come together, with everyone participating in the cooking and preparation of food.
- No Cooking on Shitala Satam: On the day of Shitala Satam, devotees avoid lighting the stove or performing any work involving heat, as a mark of respect to the goddess who is believed to bring coolness and relief.
Randhan Chhath is a celebration that emphasizes the importance of preparation, family unity, and honoring cultural traditions.
Randhan Chhath in 2024 will be observed on August 24, 2024, in Gujarat . It is marked one day before Shitala Satam in the Gujarati calendar
