Chhath Puja 2025: Why Sugarcane Is the Most Important Offering – Know Its Religious and Health Benefits

The grand festival of Chhath Mahaparva is set to begin on October 25th, 2025, marking one of the most sacred celebrations in India. Preparations start right after Diwali, as devotees get ready to worship Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. This festival holds not only deep religious significance but also has scientific and Ayurvedic importance.

During the four days of Chhath, devotees maintain purity, fast, and make special offerings — and among these, sugarcane plays a crucial role. It is said that sugarcane is Chhathi Maiya’s favorite offering, symbolizing purity, energy, and prosperity. But apart from its religious value, sugarcane is also a powerhouse of health benefits. Let’s understand why it is so special.

Sugarcane: A Symbol of Energy and Prosperity

In Hindu tradition, sugarcane represents growth, sweetness, and vitality. During Chhath, it is offered as prasad and also used in decorating the soop (bamboo basket) that holds fruits and other offerings. Scientifically, sugarcane is packed with essential nutrients that help maintain energy and improve overall health.

1. Provides Instant Energy

Sugarcane is rich in natural sugars that quickly replenish glucose levels in the body. Drinking sugarcane juice or chewing raw sugarcane provides an instant energy boost — especially helpful during long fasts or the hot summer months. It also keeps the body hydrated, making it a natural energy drink.

2. Keeps the Liver Healthy

According to Ayurveda, sugarcane acts as a natural liver cleanser. The antioxidants in sugarcane help repair damaged liver cells and flush out toxins from the body. It is also beneficial for people recovering from jaundice, as it helps restore liver function.

3. Aids Digestion

Sugarcane contains a good amount of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and relieves issues like constipation, acidity, and bloating. Chewing sugarcane stimulates saliva production, helping balance stomach acids and aiding smooth digestion.

4. Relieves Urinary Problems

Sugarcane is known to be diuretic in nature, helping maintain proper fluid balance and cleanse the urinary tract. It provides relief from frequent urination and burning sensations during urination. Regular intake of sugarcane juice can also help prevent urinary infections.

5. Strengthens Immunity

The presence of antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds in sugarcane helps strengthen the immune system. It protects against infections, flu, and inflammation while promoting better overall health.

Scientific Insight

According to research published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), sugarcane and its derivatives contain beneficial phytochemicals like terpenoids, fatty acids, and phytosterols, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.