Karva Chauth is a traditional Hindu fasting ritual observed by married women, mainly in North India. It falls on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, typically in October or November. On this day, married women fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the well-being, longevity, and prosperity of their husbands. The word “Karva” refers to an earthen pot used for storing wheat, while “Chauth” means the fourth day.

The fasting period is rigorous, and women break their fast only after sighting the moon at night. Before the moonrise, women gather in groups, often in a communal setting, to narrate the Karva Chauth story, sing songs, and exchange gifts.

Part of the rituals involves dressing in traditional attire, applying henna (mehndi) on hands, and adorning jewelry. The fast is considered a symbol of love and devotion, and it is believed to strengthen the marital bond. Karva Chauth is not only a religious practice but also a cultural celebration that highlights the significance of married life and the enduring commitment between husbands and wives.

Karva Chauth 2024 Puja Date and Time

Facts About Karva Chauth 2024

1. Fasting Tradition: Karva Chauth is a day-long fast observed by married Hindu women, beginning from sunrise and ending after moonrise.
2. Date of Observance: It usually falls on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, typically in October or November.
3. Praying for Husband’s Well-being: The fast is undertaken by married women to pray for the well-being, longevity, and prosperity of their husbands.
4. Significance of “Karva” and “Chauth”: “Karva” refers to an earthen pot used for storing wheat, and “Chauth” means the fourth day, symbolizing the fasting on the fourth day after the full moon.
5. Moonrise Marks the End: The fast is broken after sighting the moon at night. Women often look at the moon through a sieve before breaking their fast.
6. Storytelling Ritual: Before moonrise, women gather in groups to narrate the Karva Chauth story, sing songs, and exchange gifts, creating a sense of community.
7. Traditional Attire and Adornments: Women dress in traditional clothing, apply henna (mehndi) on their hands, and adorn themselves with jewelry as part of the festive rituals.
8. Baya Gifts: Married women exchange gifts known as “Baya” with their mother-in-law, usually containing items like sweets, clothing, and jewelry.
9. Pre-dawn Meal (Sargi): Women eat a pre-dawn meal called “Sargi” before starting their fast. It typically includes foods that provide sustained energy throughout the day.
10. Regional Variations: Karva Chauth is predominantly celebrated in North India, but variations of similar fasting customs are observed in different regions with unique traditions.
11. Evolving Traditions: Over time, Karva Chauth has evolved, with modern trends incorporating themes of empowerment and unity among married women.
12. Symbol of Love and Devotion: The fasting ritual is seen as a symbol of love and devotion, showcasing the enduring commitment between spouses.
13. Husband’s Involvement: In some families, husbands actively participate in the rituals, supporting their wives during the fasting process.
14. Celebrity Influence: Karva Chauth has gained visibility through popular culture, with celebrities often sharing their celebrations, contributing to its broader recognition.
15. Cultural and Social Celebration: Karva Chauth is not only a religious practice but also a cultural celebration, emphasizing the importance of marital bonds and mutual care in Indian society.