The four-day-long Chhath Mahaparv 2026 has begun today, November 13, with the traditional ritual of Nahay Khay. Celebrated with great devotion in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja has also found its way into Indian cinema. From Bhojpuri films to Bollywood productions, filmmakers have increasingly showcased the festival's rituals, traditional songs and devotion to the Sun God.
While Hindi cinema has created several memorable songs and sequences around festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Karwa Chauth, Chhath Puja remained relatively underrepresented in mainstream Bollywood for many years. Bhojpuri cinema, on the other hand, has consistently highlighted the festival through stories rooted in regional traditions, family values and religious beliefs.
From the 1961 Magahi film 'Bhaiya' to the upcoming 2026 release 'Yeh Prem Mol Liya', filmmakers have presented different aspects of Chhath Puja on screen. Interestingly, the festival is now receiving attention in mainstream Hindi films as well. Here are six films that have captured the spirit and traditions of Chhath Mahaparv.
1. Bhaiya (1961): One of Cinema's Early Glimpses of Chhath Puja
When discussing the representation of Chhath Puja in Indian cinema, the 1961 Magahi film 'Bhaiya' deserves a special mention. Directed by Phani Majumdar, the film is considered among the early cinematic productions to feature the traditions and rituals associated with the festival.
Set against the backdrop of rural life, family relationships and emotional struggles, the film incorporated Chhath celebrations into its narrative. One of its memorable songs, 'Supwe Nariyarwe Bajli Mori Maiya', continues to be associated with traditional Chhath music.
The song, sung by Usha Mangeshkar, expresses devotion to Chhathi Maiya through references to traditional offerings such as bamboo winnowing baskets and coconuts. The film's significance lies in how it presented Chhath not merely as a religious occasion but also as an important part of Bihar's cultural identity.
2. Bitiya Chhathi Mai Ke (2019): A Story of a Father's Love and Faith
The Bhojpuri film 'Bitiya Chhathi Mai Ke' is another notable addition to the list of films inspired by Chhath Mahaparv. Directed by Sujeet Verma, the film features Yash Kumar, Shyamali Shrivastava, Anjana Singh and Brijesh Tripathi in important roles.
The story revolves around the emotional bond between a father and his daughter. It explores a father's struggles, his efforts to raise his child and the challenges that come with family life.
Alongside its emotional storyline, the film places considerable importance on faith in Chhathi Maiya and the power of devotion. The festival becomes an integral part of the narrative, adding a spiritual dimension to the family's journey.
3. Chhath Ke Baratiya (2024): Bhojpuri Folk Music Celebrates the Festival
Chhath Puja has always been an important subject in Bhojpuri cinema, inspiring stories that reflect the region's customs and traditions. 'Chhath Ke Baratiya' is one such film that brings the festival's cultural atmosphere to the screen.
Directed by Kanhaiya S. Vishwakarma, the film stars Smriti Sinha, Anshuman Mishra and Mahi Srivastava in prominent roles.
The narrative combines family relationships and social circumstances with the rituals associated with Chhath fasting. Its music also captures the festive spirit through traditional Bhojpuri compositions.
Songs such as 'Chala Chhath Geet Gawal Jaye' and 'Chhathi Mai Ho' reflect the devotional mood of the festival and highlight the richness of Bhojpuri folk music.
4. Chhath (2025): A Film Centred Entirely on the Grand Festival
The 2025 Bhojpuri film 'Chhath' stands out because its storyline revolves directly around Chhath Mahaparv and the traditions associated with it.
Directed by Nitin Neera Chandra and produced by Neetu Chandra Srivastava, the film features Shashi Verma, Deepak Singh and Meghna Panchal in significant roles.
The story follows a traditional family celebrating Chhath Puja while dealing with various challenges, misunderstandings and complicated relationships. Religious beliefs and family values form an important part of the narrative.
The film premiered on Waves OTT in 2025. It also earned recognition through its selection for the Indian Panorama section of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), bringing further attention to a story rooted in the cultural traditions of Chhath.
Also Read: Bulaye Chhathi Maa Song Released Ahead Of Chhath Puja
5. The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest (2026): Chhath Puja Features in the Sidharth-Tamannaah Film
The 2026 Hindi film 'The Vvaan: Force of the Forrest', starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia, has also drawn attention for its depiction of Chhath Puja.
One of the film's songs, 'Chhathi Maiya', features Tamannaah dressed in a red saree, surrounded by women performing traditional rituals at a riverbank. The sequence captures devotees offering Arghya to the Sun God as part of the festival.
However, the celebratory scene soon takes a dramatic turn when Tamannaah's character falls into the water. Sidharth Malhotra's character immediately jumps into the river to rescue her.
By incorporating the festival into an important moment in the storyline, the film brings together traditional Chhath imagery and cinematic drama.
6. Yeh Prem Mol Liya (2026): Ayushmann-Sharvari Film Features a Special Chhath Song
Ayushmann Khurrana and Sharvari Wagh's upcoming film 'Yeh Prem Mol Liya' is also attracting attention for its connection with Chhath Puja. Directed by Sooraj R. Barjatya, the film explores family relationships, weddings and Indian traditions through a festive narrative.
The film's title track features glimpses of family celebrations and cultural occasions, including Chhath Puja. It also includes a special devotional song titled 'Bulaye Chhathi Maa'.
Released on November 12, 2026, the song has been sung by Shreya Ghoshal and Keshav Anand, with lyrics penned by Manoj Muntashir. Its inclusion adds another musical tribute to the festival's traditions.
'Yeh Prem Mol Liya' is scheduled to release in theatres on November 27, 2026. With its Chhath-themed song and traditional visuals, the film is already generating curiosity among audiences.
From Bhojpuri Cinema to Bollywood, Chhath Puja Is Finding a Wider Audience
Chhath Puja holds immense cultural and religious significance in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Beyond the worship of the Sun God, the festival represents family unity, community participation, traditional customs and unwavering faith.
For decades, Bhojpuri cinema has helped preserve and celebrate this cultural heritage through devotional songs and stories inspired by the festival. Now, mainstream Hindi films are also giving Chhath Puja greater visibility by incorporating its rituals and music into their narratives.
From 'Bhaiya' to 'Yeh Prem Mol Liya', the journey of Chhath Puja in Indian cinema reflects how a deeply rooted regional tradition is gradually reaching a wider audience. Its growing presence on the big screen is also a celebration of India's diverse cultural identity and cinematic traditions.
Also Read: Khesari Lal New Chhath Song 'Mai Biya Paniya Mein Khaad'