Karwa Chauth is one of the significant festivals for married women. On this day, Hindu women fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. This is an age-old Indian festival, celebrating the bond of love between married couples. This year, it will be celebrated on October 20, 2024 (Sunday). The festival occurs on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi in the month of Kartik according to the Purnimant calendar, or in Ashwin according to the Amanta calendar, which is followed in regions like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and southern India.
The Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is derived from the word "Karwa," meaning an earthen pot, and "Chauth," meaning the fourth day. It falls on the fourth day after the full moon in the month of Kartik (October-November). Traditionally, this festival symbolizes a wife’s dedication to her husband, highlighting the values of sacrifice and devotion that form the foundation of marital relationships.
What is the Story Behind Karwa Chauth?
Veeravati was a beautiful and loving queen, the only sister of seven brothers. After her marriage, during her first Karwa Chauth, she observed a strict fast for the well-being of her husband. She followed the tradition of not eating or drinking anything from sunrise until she saw the moon.
As the day went by, Veeravati became weak and was struggling due to hunger and thirst. Seeing her distress, her seven brothers could not bear her suffering. They decided to trick her into breaking her fast. They created a mirror in a pipal tree that made it look like the moon had risen. Believing that the moon had appeared, Veeravati performed the rituals and broke her fast.
However, soon after she ate, she received the news that her husband, the king, had died. Heartbroken, she rushed to her husband's palace. On her way, she met Goddess Parvati, who advised Veeravati to observe strict fasts with complete devotion to reverse the curse.
Veeravati followed the goddess’s instructions, fasting for several days with unwavering faith. Moved by her devotion, the gods eventually revived her husband, and he was brought back to life. Since then, Karwa Chauth has been celebrated as a symbol of love, faith, and devotion.
Rituals and Celebrations
The rituals of Karwa Chauth begin early in the morning. Women wake up before sunrise, take a ritual bath, and prepare for the day by dressing in traditional attire, often in shades of red, symbolizing marital bliss.
The highlight of the day is the fast, which involves abstaining from food and water. Women gather in groups to share stories, songs, and experiences related to the festival, strengthening their bond and sense of community.
As evening approaches, they prepare for the moon's sighting. In many households, a special thali (Sargi) is arranged with offerings, including sweets, fruits, and the ceremonial Karwa (pot). This is often adorned with decorative items, reflecting the festive spirit.
Once the moon rises, women perform a puja (prayer ritual), seeking blessings for their husband's health and longevity. They view the moon through a sieve or a piece of cloth, followed by looking at their husbands through the same sieve. This moment is often accompanied by heartfelt wishes, reaffirming their love and commitment to each other.
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