Karwa Chauth
North Indian married women mostly celebrate Karwa Chauth, a traditional Hindu holiday, in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan. It occurs in the Hindu month of Kartik (October–November), on the fourth day following the full moon (Purnima). Fasting, prayers, and customs for the health and happiness of husbands are observed during the holiday.
Karwa Chauth: The significance of the marital tie and a wife’s devotion to her husband are celebrated on this day. Wives offer prayers for their husbands’ long life, health, and wealth.
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Tradition and Culture: The celebration has a strong cultural foundation in India and highlights the value of family values as well as the contribution of women to their preservation.
Mythological Background: Karwa Chauth is linked to a number of stories, one of which is the tale of Queen Veeravati, whose loyalty to her husband and the gods’ subsequent intervention serve as an illustration of the strength of faith and determination.
Customs and Traditions:
Sargi Preparations: Married ladies start their day early by eating a pre-dawn meal called Sargi, which is provided to them by their mothers-in-law. Fruits, candies, and other healthy foods are included at this lunch to help them get through the entire fast.
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Fasting: Women observe fast strictly, depriving themselves of food and liquids from sunrise to moonrise. The fast is regarded as an example of discipline and commitment.
Prayers and Pujas: Women dress traditionally throughout the day, frequently donning saris in vibrant colours like crimson, adorning themselves with jewellery and applying mehendi (henna) to their hands. They assemble with other married women to recite the Karwa Chauth Vrat Katha (tale) and do puja (rituals).
Karwa Chauth Katha: The Vrat Katha, in which the Karwa Chauth narrative is recited, is a crucial component of the festivities. Though the details vary depending on the location, love, sacrifice, and dedication are the main elements of this tale.
Evening Rituals: Women look forward to the moonrise as the day goes on. A special puja thali (plate) is prepared, with sweets, a diya (light), an earthen pot ( karwa) , and other offerings.
Moonrise and Breaking the Fast: Women show their devotion to their husbands by looking at them through the same sieve they use to observe the moon through, either a dupatta (scarf) or a sieve. In order to break their fast, husbands give their wives water and the first bite of meal. I
Advantages and Cultural Effect: Increasing the Strength of Marital Bonds Karwa Chauth observance strengthens a couple’s emotional bond and understanding, promoting love and respect for one another.
Community and Unity: The event fosters a sense of shared cultural heritage and community by bringing together women in the community. Women should encourage and congratulate one another throughout this time.
Tradition Preservation: In order to maintain the continuity of cultural practices, Karwa Chauth is essential in maintaining and transmitting traditional customs and values to the next generation.
Personal Self-Control and Devotion: The fast necessitates a high level of self-control and dedication, demonstrating the tenacity and fortitude of women. It’s a chance for introspection and spiritual development.
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Current Observances: Certain elements of Karwa Chauth have changed with the centuries, emphasising joy over fasting strictness. As a mutual expression of devotion, some women may decide to fast in part or to include their husbands in the fast.
Commercialization: The celebration has also become more commercialised, with stores selling designer clothes, jewellery, mehendi services, and unique Karwa Chauth thalis, making it a lively and joyous affair.
Influence of the Media: Bollywood films and TV series in particular have contributed significantly to the popularisation of Karwa Chauth by portraying it as a beautiful and love-filled celebration.
A beloved event, Karwa Chauth honours commitment, love, and the matrimonial tie. Even if its customs and rituals have their roots in antiquated practices, they still undergo constant change to reflect the shifting needs of contemporary society and preserve their cultural value.
Date- 20th Oct, 2024
Day – Monday
Karwa Chauth Puja Muhurat – 17:46 to 19:02
Karwa Chauth Upavasa Time – 06:25 to 19:54
Moonrise on Karwa Chauth Day – 19:54