As women prepare to observe the Karwa Chauth fast, many are concerned about the 'Bhadra' period. Some are uncertain about the exact date for the fast, while others are seeking information regarding the auspicious timing for the *puja* (worship) and the moonrise. It is important for women to know when the Bhadra period occurs and the appropriate time to perform the Karwa Chauth *puja*. According to astrologers, there is no need for concern regarding Bhadra; it falls on the night of October 28, while women can observe the Karwa Chauth fast on October 29. Women are advised to avoid any confusion and to verify details regarding the fast by consulting the *Panchang* (traditional Hindu calendar).

**Know the Auspicious Timing**

Pandit RK Sharma explained that Karwa Chauth holds special significance for married women. On this day, women observe a fast, praying for their husbands' longevity, good health, and a happy marital life. According to tradition, women wake up before sunrise on the day of the fast to partake in *Sargi* (a pre-dawn meal). They then observe a fast throughout the day, followed by the Karwa Chauth *puja* and the recitation of the *Katha* (traditional story) in the evening. At night, after sighting the moon and offering *Arghya* (a ritual offering of water), the women break their fast. Pandit Sharma noted that there is also keen interest regarding the auspicious time for the *puja*; the recommended window for performing the *puja* and listening to the Karwa Chauth *Katha* on October 29 is between 5:48 PM and 6:56 PM.

However, it is essential to verify the precise *muhurta* (auspicious timing) for the *puja* according to the local *Panchang* and one's specific geographical location. It is said that the most significant part of the Karwa Chauth fast is waiting for the moon to rise; the moon is expected to appear after 8:15 PM. Upon sighting the moon, women view it through a sieve, offer *arghya* (a ritual offering of water), and pray for their husbands' longevity, good health, and a happy life. The fast is then broken by consuming water offered by the husband. Since the time of moonrise varies by city, women should verify the timing for their specific region.

In Punjab, Karwa Chauth begins with the tradition of *sargi*. Before sunrise, a mother-in-law gives *sargi*—consisting of fruits, sweets, and other food items—to her daughter-in-law. Women begin their fast after consuming this *sargi*. In the evening, they adorn themselves with *solah shringar* (sixteen traditional adornments) and perform *puja* (worship). In many places, a ritual called *pheri* is also observed, where women sit in a circle, pass a *puja* plate to one another, and listen to the Karwa Chauth legend. Meanwhile, in several parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, there is also a tradition of worshipping *Gaur Mata*. The custom of viewing the moon—and subsequently the husband’s face—through a sieve has been practiced for centuries.

According to religious beliefs, through these rituals, women pray for their husbands' long lives and the prosperity of their marital life. The act of the husband offering water and sweets to his wife to break her fast is considered a symbol of love, trust, and responsibility. The essence of this tradition is that the couple should care for each other throughout their lives, ensuring that their relationship remains filled with love and sweetness. Karwa Chauth is not merely a day of fasting; it is a profound symbol of the love, trust, and devotion shared between a husband and wife. In such a situation, women observing the fast should obtain accurate information regarding the date, *Bhadra* (an inauspicious period), and the auspicious timing (*muhurta*) for worship, so that they can perform their religious traditions without any confusion.

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