Karwa Chauth, one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, is a day dedicated to the love, devotion, and commitment between married couples. Observed on the Chaturthi of Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month, it holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for Hindu women. On this day, married women fast from sunrise to moonrise, seeking the long life, happiness, and prosperity of their husbands. Unmarried women, especially those with fixed marriages, also observe this fast in anticipation of a harmonious marital life.
This year, Karwa Chauth will be celebrated on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The fast is particularly known for its strictness, as women observe a Nirjala fast, meaning they refrain from food and water until they break the fast upon seeing the moon at night. After a day of prayer and rituals, the sighting of the moon is the highlight, symbolizing the completion of the fast.
Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is a deeply significant festival in Hindu culture. It is a day when married women observe a strict fast, praying for the long life, prosperity, and well-being of their husbands. The festival represents the strength of marital bonds, devotion, and love. From sunrise to moonrise, women observe a strict Nirjala fast, consuming neither food nor water. The fast is broken after offering Argha to the moon, reflecting the depth of their prayers.
Coinciding with Sankashti Chaturthi, the day also involves worship of Lord Ganesha, Shiva, Parvati, and Kartikeya, praying for the family’s well-being. This festival celebrates the strength of marital bonds and the dedication of women to their husbands’ happiness.
Auspicious Timings for Karwa Chauth 2024
The significance of the day is magnified by the importance of performing rituals at the correct times. The auspicious times (muhurtas) for this year are as follows:
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Brahma Muhurta: 4:44 AM to 5:35 AM
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Abhijeet Muhurta: 11:43 AM to 12:28 PM
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Vijay Muhurta: 1:59 PM to 2:45 PM
Moonrise Time
The moonrise is expected to occur at 7:54 PM on Karwa Chauth. However, the exact time may vary slightly depending on the location. Women traditionally break their fast only after offering water (Arghya) to the moon and seeking blessings for their husbands' well-being.
Karwa Chauth Puja Rituals
Karwa Chauth is observed with various customs, including dressing in traditional attire and performing the evening puja with a Karwa (earthen pot). Women adorn themselves with henna, vibrant clothing, and jewelry, symbolizing prosperity and marital bliss.
The day begins early for many women with a pre-dawn meal called sargi, traditionally prepared by mothers-in-law for their daughters-in-law. After this, women observe a strict fast, abstaining from both food and water throughout the day. In the evening, they gather for the puja, sharing stories of Veeravati, Karwa, and Savitri, which honor devotion and love. The fast ends with the sighting of the moon, after which husbands symbolically feed their wives, breaking the fast.
Things to Avoid on Karwa Chauth
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Wearing Black or White Clothes: These colors are considered inauspicious on Karwa Chauth. Opt for bright and vibrant colors like red, which symbolize prosperity and happiness.
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Using Sharp Objects: Avoid using sharp objects like needles or scissors, as it is believed to bring bad luck and negative energy on this sacred day.
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Throwing Away Makeup Items: After the puja, do not throw away leftover makeup items used during the ritual. It is advised to immerse them in a holy river instead.
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Engaging in Arguments or Negativity: Keep a positive and calm mindset. Avoid arguments, resentment, or using harsh language, as it is believed to diminish the blessings of the fast.
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Sleeping During Puja Time: Avoid sleeping during the puja or fasting hours, as it is believed to reduce the spiritual benefits of the fast. Stay engaged in prayers and rituals.
This Karwa Chauth, may the bonds of love grow stronger, and may all women be blessed with prosperity and happiness.
