As the festival of Chhath Puja unfolds, the second day, known as Kharna or Lohanda, deepens the devotional journey with a full day of fasting and a sumptuous meal at sunset. Kharna falls on November 6 this year, a healthy time to purify, prepare and enjoy the delicious and precious dessert Rasiya kheer. On this day, devotees or ‘vratis’ come closer to the center of Chhath as they observe the nirjala fast and do not eat any food or water from sunrise to sunset.
What will happen on Karna?
Kharna begins early for the fasting of pious men and women. After taking bath in the morning, they start preparing ritual items such as fruits, bamboo baskets, diyas and offerings including sugar cane, coconut and other fruits such as sinhara (water chestnuts) and bananas. The day was filled with an atmosphere of serenity and anticipation as Fratis cleaned the surroundings and cooked meals in homage to Chatti Maiyya and the Sun God.
Sunset Feast: Rasiya kheer
As the sun sets, it’s time to break the fast with Rasiya Kheer’s prasad, a comforting dessert made of rice, jaggery and ghee, without milk. Cooked without traditional sugar, this jaggery-rich kheer has a subtle sweetness that is both earthy and festive. Served with soft roti or crispy puri, this simple and soulful meal is enjoyed first by vratis and then shared with the family, adding to the warmth and sense of togetherness of the evening.
Day 2: Kharna ka prasaad… Roti Rasiyao ☺ Rasiyao is kheer without milk.. In many places in Bihar.. milk is put in kheer… #ChhathPuja pic.twitter.com/OthBh9sxEj
— Vinita Singh 🇮🇳 (@biharigurl) November 18, 2023
Why Kharna is special to vratis
Kharna is a profound step into the spiritual core of Chhath Puja as it involves not only fasting but also personal discipline and focus on family and tradition. Described by many as a “cleansing of the soul,” the day is often deeply emotional for Fratis. This sunset meal is the last meal for Phratis before he begins a challenging 36-hour fast that will last until the morning of the fourth day, Arghya.
more than a ritual
The appeal of Kharna isn’t just about fasting or the special kheer; it’s about its connection to heritage and loved ones. For many, especially those who celebrate in the city, Khanna is an opportunity to return to their roots, feel the warmth of tradition and bridge the gap between the old and the new. So whether you celebrate Karna in a Bihar village or replicate the ceremony on a city balcony, the spirit of the day is truly warm and uniting.
