As the Chhat Puja festival unfolds, Day 2, known as Kharna or Lokhanda, deepens the devotional journey with a day of fasting and a sumptuous meal at sunset. This year, November 6, Kharn is a time of purification, preparation and wholesome serving of the sweet, cherished dessert of Russia khir. This day brings the devotees, or *vratis*, closer to the heart of Chhath as they observe the nirjal fast of abstaining from food and water from sunrise to sunset.
What is happening on Harn?
Harna begins bright and early for the devoted women and men observing the fast. After the morning bath, they begin their preparations by collecting ritual items such as fruits, bamboo baskets of *soap*, dia and offerings including sugarcane, coconuts and other fruits such as singhara (water chestnuts) and bananas. There is a serene yet expectant atmosphere on this day as the vrats clean the surroundings and cook for dinner, paying homage to Chhati Maya and the Sun God.
Holiday at sunset: Russia khir
Once the sun sets, it’s time to break the fast with Rasiya Kheer prasadam, a comforting dessert of rice, jade and dairy-free ghee. Made without the traditional sugar, kheer infused with jaggery has a subtle sweetness that is both earthy and festive. This simple yet hearty meal, accompanied by a soft choro or crisp puri, is first savored by the diners and then shared with family members, adding warmth and a sense of togetherness to the evening.
Day 2: Kharna ka prasaad… Roti Rasiyao ☺ Rasiyao is kheer without milk.. In many parts of Bihar .. Milk is put in kheer… #ChhatPuja pic.twitter.com/OthBh9sxEj
— Vinita Singh 🇮🇳 (@biharigurl) November 18, 2023
Why Kharna is special for vratis
Kharna is a deep step into the spiritual heart of Chhat Puja, as it involves not only fasting but also personal discipline and a focus on family and tradition. Described by many as a “cleansing of the soul,” the day often feels deeply emotional for Vratis. This sunset meal is the last meal before Vratis embarks on an arduous 36-hour fast that lasts until the morning Argya on the fourth day.
More than just a ritual
The charm of Kharna is not only in fasting or a special khiri; it’s in the connection it brings with heritage and loved ones. For many, especially those who celebrate in cities, Harna is a chance to return to their roots, feel the warmth of tradition and bridge the gap between old and new. So, whether you celebrate Kharn in a Bihar village or repeat the rituals from a city balcony, the spirit of the day is truly heart-warming and unifying.
