Chhath Puja 2024: Take Note Of Dishes Included In Nahaye-Khaye Thali

Chhath is a 4-day Hindu festival on which devotees worship the Sun God and Chhathi Mata. The celebration this year will begin on November 5, 2024; it’s day one and referred to as Nahaye Khaye (or Nahaay Khaay). People bathe in the wee hours and clean their houses and ghats (where prayers are performed). 

Since people observe fast throughout the day, they consume Sattvic food. On this auspicious day, a special meal is prepared which is referred to as Nahaye Khaye thali. Some details might differ in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, but the emotions and faith attached to it are the same.

Thekua

Also called tikari, khajuria, and thokni, thekua is a dry sweet delight prepared on Chhath. It is considered holy and first offered to Gods and Goddesses before distributing as prasad among family members. Made with ghee, flour, and jaggery or sugar, it completes the Chhatha thali. Many say that the sweet snack has been a part of celebrations for centuries.

Also Read: Chhath Puja: Rasiya, Kasar and More 6 Traditional Recipes For Puja

Curd

Curd is a probiotic and nutritious element in the Nahaye-Khaye thali. It adds a sour touch to the complete meal and is considered appropriate for consumption, especially if you have not had any food or beverage. Some people add sugar to curd. It is considered a good omen to eat dahi-shakkar before heading for an important task or celebrating an auspicious day.

Lauki Chana Dal and Rice

When it comes to Sattvic food, nothing beats the lauki chana dal combination. It is fulfilling, healthy, and easy on the digestive system. Since the festival continues for four days, people cannot be munching on heavy food that can hamper their health. Therefore, lauki chana dal is prepared and served with rice. You can add tomatoes to it or temper it with green chillies, ghee, and cumin seeds.

Lauki Sabzi

If you are making lauki chana dal, you can skip cooking bottle gourd curry. It is another lightweight dish that people observing a fast throughout the day can consume in the evening. Not only is it easy to digest but also hydrates the body and refuels it with energy. It also pairs well with rice. If you find the dish slightly bland, add a teaspoon of lemon juice and chopped coriander leaves for sour and fresh notes.

Kaddu Bhat

If you are making one of the dishes with bottle gourd, you can add kaddu bhat or kaddu ki sabzi to Nahaye Khaye thali. It is delicious and elevates the flavour profile of the meal. If you make it with a sprinkle of sugar, the sweet and savoury taste will leave your taste buds tantalised. The dish can be seasoned with red chillies, chopped green chillies, and cumin seeds.

August Flower Fritters

August flower is considered good for improving memory. It is often referred to as Agati, Bokful, Agusti, and Agastya. It is used to prepare pakoras to be added to the Nahaye Khaye thali. They are rich in iron, calcium, and many other vitamins and minerals. You can season them ajwain and chillies for a sumptuous indulgence.