New Delhi: Karwa Chauth, one of the most significant festivals for married Hindu women, will be observed on Sunday, October 20, 2024. The day is dedicated to the long life, prosperity, and well-being of husbands, with women observing a day-long fast and offering prayers. The festival is not only of religious importance but also strengthens the bond of love and trust between husband and wife, making it a key tradition in Indian households.
This year, Karwa Chauth falls on October 20, 2024, with the Chaturthi Tithi starting at 6:46 AM on October 20 and ending at 4:16 AM on October 21. The puja for Karwa Chauth is most auspicious during the evening hours between 5:46 PM and 7:02 PM, when women offer their prayers to the moon and seek blessings for their husbands.
Event
Date and Time
Karwa Chauth Date
October 20, 2024 (Sunday)
Karwa Chauth Puja Muhurat
5:46 PM to 7:02 PM on October 20, 2024
Chaturthi Tithi Start
6:46 AM on October 20, 2024
Chaturthi Tithi End
4:16 AM on October 21, 2024
Why is Karwa Chauth Celebrated?
Karwa Chauth holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. Married women fast from sunrise to moonrise without consuming food or water, praying for their husband’s long life and prosperity. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in North India, and has been a part of Indian traditions for generations.
One of the most well-known stories associated with Karwa Chauth is that of Veervati, a princess who observed the fast for her husband’s long life. According to the legend, her brothers tricked her into breaking her fast before the moon had risen by showing her a fake reflection of the moon. Upon breaking the fast, she learned that her husband had fallen ill. Distraught, she prayed to Goddess Parvati, who granted her the boon of her husband’s recovery, reinforcing the belief in the power of the fast.
Other Mythological Stories Linked to Karwa Chauth
Several stories and legends are tied to Karwa Chauth, further deepening its cultural relevance.
In the Mahabharata, it is believed that Draupadi, concerned for Arjuna’s safety during a dangerous expedition, sought advice from Lord Krishna. He recommended that she observe the Karwa Chauth fast, which ensured her husband’s safety and well-being. This narrative connects the festival to themes of protection and devotion.
Another famous tale is that of Karwa, a woman known for her devotion to her husband. When her husband was attacked by a crocodile while bathing in a river, Karwa tied the crocodile with a cotton thread and prayed to Yama, the god of death, to save him. Impressed by her devotion, Yama granted her husband a long life.
Significance of Karwa Chauth Fast
Karwa Chauth is not just a religious fast but a celebration of the sacred bond of marriage. The fast is believed to bring good fortune to women, ensuring their husband’s long life and prosperity. It also strengthens the emotional and spiritual connection between husband and wife. The day serves as a moment of reflection on the love, trust, and mutual respect that sustains marriages.
Rituals of Karwa Chauth
On the day of Karwa Chauth, women wake up early to eat Sargi, a pre-dawn meal prepared by their mother-in-law. After this meal, they fast throughout the day without food or water. In the evening, women gather for the Karwa Chauth Katha, where they listen to stories about the festival’s origins and significance.
Once the moon rises, women view it through a sieve and then look at their husband’s face through the same sieve before breaking their fast. This ritual symbolises the deep bond and devotion they share.
Ritual
Significance
Sargi (Pre-dawn meal)
Prepared by mother-in-law; consumed before sunrise
Fasting
Observed from sunrise to moonrise without food or water
Evening Puja
Prayers offered to Goddess Parvati for husband’s long life
Moonrise Ritual
Women break their fast after viewing the moon through a sieve
Karwa Chauth continues to be a cherished festival for married women across India, representing their love, devotion, and prayers for their husband’s long life and prosperity. Passed down through generations, this festival has become a key part of Indian culture, bringing women together to celebrate marriage, family, and tradition.
(Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on traditional beliefs and cultural practices. News9 Live does not verify the authenticity of religious claims.)
Karwa Chauth 2024 falls on October 20. Learn about the puja muhurat, sargi traditions, and fasting rituals observed by married Hindu women for their husband’s prosperity and long life. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
