New Delhi: Chhathi Maiya holds a special place in Hindu religious traditions, particularly during Chhath Puja, when devotees worship her alongside Surya Dev. She is widely regarded as the goddess who protects children, blesses families and supports the well-being of mothers and newborns. In Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, devotees seek her blessings for their children’s long life, good health and happiness.
Although Surya Dev receives offerings during sunrise and sunset, Chhathi Maiya is equally important in the prayers of millions of devotees. Her identity is connected with different accounts in Hindu mythology and regional folklore. She is commonly associated with Shashthi Devi, also known as Devasena, and is regarded as Surya Dev’s sister in several popular traditions. Another important account in the Devi Bhagavata Purana describes how she restored a royal couple’s lifeless child, explaining her association with children’s protection.
Who Is Chhathi Maiya in Hindu Mythology?
The name Chhathi Maiya comes from the word Shashthi, which refers to the sixth day of the lunar fortnight. Maiya is a term of affection and respect for a mother. Her name is therefore closely associated with the sixth-day worship observed during Chhath traditions.
According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, Shashthi Devi is a manifestation of Prakriti and is worshipped as the divine protector of children. She is also identified as Devasena, the wife of Lord Kartikeya. Religious accounts associate her with childbirth, the protection of newborns and children’s longevity.
In Bihar and surrounding regions, Chhathi Maiya is popularly regarded as the sister of Surya Dev. However, some mythological interpretations also describe a connection between her and Surya as his consort. These beliefs reflect different religious traditions and regional interpretations, rather than one universally accepted identity.
The Story of Chhathi Maiya: King Priyavrat and Queen Malini
One of the most significant stories about Shashthi Devi is found in the Devi Bhagavata Purana. It describes King Priyavrat and his wife, Queen Malini, who were deeply troubled because they could not have a child despite their long wait.
Seeking a solution, King Priyavrat approached sage Kashyapa. The sage recommended performing a Putreshti Yajna, a sacred ritual traditionally conducted with the desire to have children.
Following the completion of the yajna, Queen Malini became pregnant and eventually gave birth to a son. However, the newborn was lifeless. The tragic incident left the royal couple heartbroken.
Unable to bear the loss, King Priyavrat took his child’s body to the cremation ground. While he was grieving, a divine woman appeared before him in a celestial chariot.
She introduced herself as Devsena, also known as Shashthi Devi. The goddess explained that she was the sixth part of Prakriti and that devotees worshipped her to receive blessings and protection.
According to the legend, Shashthi Devi lifted the lifeless child and brought him back to life. She then instructed the king to worship her and share her significance with others.
King Priyavrat accepted the goddess’s instructions and began performing rituals in her honour. This story explains why Shashthi Devi became widely respected as the divine protector of children and a goddess associated with family happiness.
Why Is Chhathi Maiya Worshipped Alongside Surya Dev?
Chhath Puja is primarily dedicated to Surya Dev, the Sun God, but the worship of Chhathi Maiya is also an essential part of the festival for many devotees.
Surya Dev symbolises light, energy, health and the natural power that supports life on Earth. Chhathi Maiya, on the other hand, represents maternal protection, children’s well-being and family prosperity. Together, their worship reflects gratitude towards nature and prayers for the happiness and safety of loved ones.
This connection can be seen throughout the four-day Chhath Puja celebrations. Devotees prepare traditional prasad, observe strict fasting rituals and offer Arghya to the setting Sun and the rising Sun. Traditional Chhath songs also frequently mention Chhathi Maiya, expressing devotion and seeking her blessings.
Her worship is not limited to the festival alone. In certain Hindu traditions, Shashthi Devi is also worshipped on the sixth day following a child’s birth. Families observe specific religious customs to seek protection and blessings for newborns during their early stages of life.
The story of King Priyavrat and Queen Malini further strengthens the belief that Chhathi Maiya protects children and blesses families with happiness and well-being.
Significance of Chhathi Maiya in Chhath Puja
Chhathi Maiya’s importance goes beyond religious rituals. For countless families, she represents a mother’s protective power, faith in divine blessings and hopes for a healthy future for their children.
Her connection with childbirth, children’s longevity and family welfare makes her one of the most respected goddesses in Bihar’s religious and cultural traditions. Generations of devotees continue to remember her through prayers, traditional songs and Chhath rituals.
Alongside Surya Dev, Chhathi Maiya’s worship gives the festival a deeper family-oriented meaning. The traditions associated with her reflect devotion, gratitude and the desire for good health, prosperity and happiness for future generations.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and religious awareness purposes. The mythological stories and beliefs mentioned are based on traditional Hindu scriptures, regional folklore and cultural practices. Interpretations may differ across communities and traditions. Readers are encouraged to understand these accounts in their respective religious and cultural contexts.