Karva Chauth : A Celebration of Love

In India, Karva Chauth is a revered festival where married women fast for their husbands' well-being, showcasing their unwavering dedication and love. This ancient tradition is steeped in mythological significance and rich cultural rituals.

The Fasting Ritual

Women rise before dawn, around 4 am, to share a quick meal called 'sargi' with their families. This pre-dawn feast is a symbolic start to their day-long fast. Throughout the day, they abstain from food and water, demonstrating their selfless devotion.

Unwavering Commitment

As the sun sets, women gather in their finest attire, adorned with intricate henna designs and vibrant jewelry. They exchange karvas (small earthen pots) filled with sweets, nuts, and other gifts, strengthening their bond of sisterhood.

Breaking the Fast

I remember as a child I would climb up the roof top of our house in South Extension on each Karva Chauth night trying to spot the Moon. Oftentimes, the clouds would play bad or the sighting would be delayed. I would run and tell maa when Moon was finally spotted. I grew up seeing my mom’s love and devotion and how this ritual inspired me. Later, after marriage, I would do the astro watch for my wife. Still do. It’s only under the moonlit sky, women break their fast by,

- ⁠Viewing the moon through a sieve or mesh.

- Offering prayers to the moon god, Chandra.

- Receiving water from their husbands, symbolising the breaking of their fast.

Mythological Significance

Karva Chauth finds its roots in Hindu mythology, 

- Savitri and Satyavan Story: Savitri's unwavering devotion and fasting saved her husband Satyavan from death.

- Queen Veervati Story: Veervati's fast and prayers brought her husband back to life.

Rituals and Traditions

Mehndi application is an art form. Intricate henna designs adorn women's hands. It’s always a delight to accompany your wife and wait as she and other ladies put on the designs. Pre-dawn Sargi meal is shared with family and a part of it, I always enjoy myself, too. The Karva exchange with other ladies who are fasting is another great moment. Women exchange gifts and sweets, too. Lastly,  is the Moon viewing which marks breaking the fast under the moonlit sky.

Celebrating the Spirit

Karva Chauth honors the selfless love and devotion of women for their husbands. Their unwavering commitment inspires reverence and admiration.

As the moon shines bright, women's faces light up with joy, knowing their love and fasting have brought blessings and prosperity to their families.

A Tribute

To the women who observe Karva Chauth with such dedication and love, I salute them. Your unwavering commitment, devotion n selflessness inspires us all.

As a husband, I have kept the fast alongside my lovely fast on numerous occasions. A full waterless fast. It was only then that I could understand the deep sacrifice which our mothers, sisters and wives undertake to achieve their dreams of a happy family.