In Hinduism, the festival of Karwa Chauth is considered a symbol of the love, trust, and unbreakable bond between a husband and wife. On this day, married women observe a fast, praying for their husbands' longevity, good health, and a blissful marital life. Women observe a *nirjala* (waterless) fast throughout the day, abstaining from both food and water from sunrise until the moon is sighted.
In the evening, they adorn themselves in traditional finery (*solah shringar*) and perform rituals according to prescribed customs. Following this, they offer *arghya* (a ritual offering) to the Moon God, break their fast by drinking water offered by their husbands, and conclude the observance. According to Ujjain-based astrologer Anand Bhardwaj, it is essential to adhere to certain guidelines on this day.
According to the Hindu calendar, the *Chaturthi Tithi* (fourth lunar day) of the *Krishna Paksha* (waning phase) in the month of *Kartik* will begin at 1:06 AM on October 29 and continue until 10:09 PM that same night. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the lunar day prevailing at sunrise) and established fasting traditions, Karwa Chauth will be celebrated this year on October 29.
Why is the Moon worshipped on Karwa Chauth?
The worship of the Moon holds special significance on Karwa Chauth. The Moon is considered a symbol of peace, prosperity, and mental stability. Worshipping it fosters love, trust, and balance in marital life. It is a religious belief that offering *arghya* to the Moon contributes to a husband's longevity and ensures happiness in the marriage. Furthermore, this act of worship signifies respect for the elements of water and earth, which are regarded as the foundations of life.
Do not consume food or water
According to the rules of the fast, one must abstain from consuming any food or drink from sunrise until moonrise. During this period, one should not eat any food or drink even a single drop of water. If the rules of the fast are inadvertently violated, one should bathe, put on clean clothes, and seek forgiveness from Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for the oversight.
A Note for Newlywed Women
If you are observing the Karwa Chauth fast for the first time, dressing up like a bride holds special significance. According to tradition, wearing your wedding attire and adorning yourself with the 'solah shringar' (the sixteen traditional bridal adornments) is considered auspicious. It is believed that this enhances the significance of the rituals and serves as a prayer for your husband’s long life and a blissful married life.
Avoid Using Sharp Objects
According to religious beliefs, there are certain rules to be followed on the day of the fast. It is advised to refrain from using items like scissors, needles, knives, or any other sharp objects. It is also best to avoid tasks such as sewing or embroidery. Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain the sanctity of the fast and ensures that one receives the full spiritual benefits of the worship.
Do Not Wear Black
Married women should be particularly mindful of the colors they choose to wear on Karwa Chauth. In many religious traditions, the color black is considered inauspicious; therefore, it is advised to avoid wearing it on this day. Instead, colors like red, pink, yellow, orange, or green are considered auspicious. Furthermore, there is a tradition of breaking the fast by accepting water from one’s husband’s hands—a gesture that symbolizes love, trust, and marital happiness.
PC Social Media
