Karwa Chauth is a traditional Hindu festival, primarily observed by married women in North India, where they fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being, health, and longevity of their husbands. The festival is celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, which typically falls in October or November.
Here’s a brief overview of the key customs and rituals associated with Karwa Chauth:
Sargi: Before sunrise, women eat a special meal called Sargi, which is prepared by their mothers-in-law. It includes fruits, sweets, and other energy-rich foods to sustain them through the fast.
Fasting: The fast begins at sunrise and is observed without food or water throughout the day. It is considered a significant act of love and devotion.
Puja Ceremony: In the evening, women gather to listen to the Karwa Chauth Katha (the story behind the festival) and perform a group prayer, which includes offering water to the moon through an earthen pot called Karwa.
Breaking the Fast: After sighting the moon, women look at it through a sieve, followed by looking at their husband through the same sieve. The husband then gives the wife her first sip of water and a bite of food, signifying the end of the fast.
Karwa Chauth is not just about fasting; it's a celebration of love, dedication, and the bond between husband and wife. Women often dress in vibrant colors, especially red and gold, and adorn themselves with jewelry and henna (mehendi). It's also common for husbands to give gifts to their wives to show appreciation for their devotion.
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