Significance
Karwa Chauth is a fasting day observed by married women in North India for the longevity and well-being of their husbands. Women fast from sunrise to moonrise without food or water.
Mythology & Legend
According to legend, Queen Veeravati broke her fast before moonrise and lost her husband. She was advised to observe the fast again with full devotion. The tale of Savitri-Satyavan also underscores the power of a wife's devotion. Women break the fast after sighting the moon and receiving water from their husband.
Rituals & Observances
- Before sunrise, eat the sargi (meal from mother-in-law) with fruits, dry fruits, and seviyan.
- Apply mehndi in the morning; wear traditional clothes and jewellery.
- Observe nirjala fast (no food or water) throughout the day.
- In the evening, gather with other women and perform the Karwa Chauth puja; listen to the katha.
- After moonrise, sight the moon through a sieve, then look at the husband; receive water from him to break the fast.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ चन्द्रमसे नमः
oṃ candramase namaḥ
Salutations to Chandra
Traditional Foods
- ●Sargi: fruits, dry fruits, seviyan
- ●After moon: full meal
- ●Sweets and thali
Regional Variations
North India (Punjab, UP, Rajasthan)(करवा चौथ)
Major festival, sargi and moon sighting
Other regions(करवा चौथ)
Observed by some communities
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Observe fast with devotion
- ✓Wear traditional clothes and mehndi
- ✓Perform puja with other women
- ✓Break fast only after moon sighting
Don'ts
- ✗Do not consume food or water during fast
- ✗Avoid breaking fast before moon
- ✗Do not argue or stress