Why are bamboo winnowing baskets (*soop*) and trays (*daura*) used in Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja 2026: Every item used during Chhath Puja holds its own unique significance. Whether it is preparing *thekua* (a traditional sweet), offering fruits, or presenting *arghya* (oblations) to the Sun God, bamboo *soop* (winnowing baskets) and *daura* (bamboo baskets) play a central role in these preparations. You may have noticed that during Chhath Puja, people place greater importance on *soop* and *daura* made of bamboo, rather than on vessels made of brass, steel, or other metals.
What is the reason behind this? Is it merely an age-old tradition, or is there a deeper philosophy rooted in nature, folk culture, and the act of worship itself? To understand this, it is essential to look at the traditions of Chhath Puja and the significance of using these bamboo-crafted items.
What is the significance of bamboo *soop* and *daura* in Chhath Puja?
How are *soop* and *daura* used?
In Chhath Puja, the *soop* and *daura* serve distinct purposes. A *soop* is a wide, flat vessel crafted from thin strips of bamboo. It is used to arrange *thekua*, fruits, coconuts, ginger, turmeric, and other *prasad* (offerings). When offering *arghya* to the Sun God, this *soop* is presented with deep reverence. A *daura*, on the other hand, is a bamboo basket used to hold the various items required for the ritual, as well as the *prasad*. Family members carry these baskets on their heads while traveling to the place of worship or the *ghat* (riverbank). Thus, the tradition involves arranging the *prasad* in a *soop* and carrying it in a *daura*.
Why is bamboo given such importance?
Chhath Puja is also a festival dedicated to expressing gratitude toward nature. It incorporates the Sun, water, and the fruits and grains provided by the Earth into the rituals. In this context, the use of bamboo *soop* and *daura* upholds a tradition that is intrinsically linked to nature.
In the rural regions of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, bamboo has long been an essential part of daily life. It has traditionally been used to craft *soop*, baskets, mats, and a variety of other household items. Consequently, the use of bamboo-made items in a folk festival like Chhath has gradually become an integral part of its tradition and identity. A notable advantage of bamboo products is that they are biodegradable—they decompose naturally after use—making them a far more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic.
Is it wrong to use brass or steel vessels?
It is important to understand that while the use of bamboo *soops* (winnowing trays) and *dauras* (bamboo baskets) is a traditional custom during Chhath Puja, brass *soops* are also used in some regions.
The use of steel is generally considered prohibited during *puja* (worship):
• Man-made alloy: Steel is an alloy created by humans in industrial settings. In the *shastras* (scriptures), only natural metals—such as gold, silver, copper, and brass—are considered pure and auspicious for worship.
• Iron content: Steel is primarily composed of iron. In astrology and religious belief systems, iron is associated with the planets Shani (Saturn) and Rahu; it is often regarded as a symbol of negative energy in the context of religious rituals and auspicious ceremonies.
• Lack of ritual purity: In religious rites, the purity of objects and the positive energy they carry are of paramount importance. Steel is not traditionally or naturally categorized as a *sattvic* (pure/virtuous) or sacred metal.
Livelihoods of artisans linked to bamboo *soops* and *dauras*
The significance of bamboo *soops* and *dauras* in Chhath Puja extends beyond mere religious tradition; the livelihoods of the local artisans who craft them are also deeply connected to these items. In many parts of Bihar, artisans have been weaving bamboo strips into *soops*, baskets, and *dauras* for generations. As the Chhath festival approaches, the demand for these items surges. However, *soops* made from brass, steel, and other metals have now entered the market. The growing use of these alternatives directly impacts the work of the traditional artisans who craft bamboo goods.