The sixth night after birth, a Mithila home flickers with copper lamps and the fragrance of incense. Women huddle in circles, their voices rising in melodic lullabies to Chhathi Maiya, the goddess of destiny. This is Chhathi—a tender ritual where the ink of fate is believed to be inscribed with the love of a community.
The Night of Destiny
In Maithil folklore, the sixth night is the most critical in a newborn's spiritual life. It is believed that Vidhata (the Creator) or Chhathi Maiya visits the child to write their Lila (destiny) on their forehead. To welcome her, the room is kept brightly lit, and a wooden plank (patara) is placed with a pen, ink, and a blank paper—an invitation for the goddess to grant the child wisdom and a long life.
The 'Kajal' Ceremony
A central part of Chhathi is the application of homemade Kajal (collyrium). The father's sister (Bua) traditionally prepares this soot from a mustard oil lamp. She applies it to the child's eyes and makes a small mark on the forehead or the sole of the foot to ward off the 'evil eye'. This act strengthens the bond between the paternal aunt and the newborn.
The Ritual Feast
Families prepare Kheer and Sohari. A portion is offered to the family deity (Dih) and then shared among relatives, symbolizing the sweetness of new life.
Yellow Thread
A protective yellow thread (Sut) is often tied around the child's waist or wrist, blessed with mantras to ensure physical strength and immunity.
Chhathi Maiya: The Protector
Unlike the grand solar worship of the Chhath Puja, the Chhathi ritual is intimate and female-centric. The songs sung are called Soahars, which describe the joy of birth and the virtues desired in the child. Chhathi Maiya is seen as a grandmotherly figure—protective, wise, and deeply connected to the household's welfare.
Modern Relevance
In modern Mithila, Chhathi serves as a Post-Natal Support System. It is the first day the mother is traditionally allowed to step out of the labor room, marking her re-entry into the family circle.
- Community Bonding: It brings together neighbors and distant relatives, fostering a 'village' to raise the child.
- Digital Traditions: Diaspora families often keep a 'Jakhni' (lamp) lit while on a group video call, ensuring the 'night of light' is shared across time zones.
- Celebrating the Girl Child: In contemporary Mithila, Chhathi is celebrated with equal fervor for daughters, emphasizing their role as the future 'Lakshmi' of the home.
The Sira Tradition
In some regions, the mother's brothers (Mamas) bring gold or silver ornaments and new clothes on this day. This "Sira" tradition emphasizes that the child is the pride of both the paternal and maternal lineages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the light kept on all night?
Symbolically, it represents knowledge and alertness. Mythologically, it is to ensure the room is welcoming for the goddess of destiny and to protect the newborn from negative shadows during their most vulnerable phase.
Is this different from the 'Namkaran'?
Yes. While Namkaran (Naming Ceremony) happens later, Chhathi is focused specifically on destiny and protection. However, many families use the joy of Chhathi to announce a 'calling name' for the baby.