Karwa Chauth is observed on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi in Kartik (Ashwin in Amanta calendar).
The festival is also called Karak Chaturthi.
Married women fast from sunrise to moonrise without food or water.
The fast ends with offering Argha to the moon using a Karwa (earthen pot).
It is mainly celebrated in North India and coincides with Vakratunda Sankashti Chaturthi in Maharashtra.
Details
Karwa Chauth, also known as Karak Chaturthi, is a significant Hindu festival observed predominantly in North India. Celebrated on the fourth day of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha Chaturthi) in the month of Kartik (or Ashwin in the Amanta calendar), it coincides with Sankashti Chaturthi, a day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. On this day, married women undertake a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, abstaining from food and water, to pray for the longevity and well-being of their husbands. The fast is broken only after sighting the moon and offering Argha (water) through a Karwa (earthen pot) .
The rituals of Karwa Chauth involve worshipping Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha. Women dress in traditional attire, apply mehndi (henna), and gather for community prayers. In Maharashtra, the festival aligns with Vakratunda Sankashti Chaturthi, where devotees worship Lord Ganesha in his Vakratunda form, one of the Ashta Vinayaka . Four days after Karwa Chauth, Ahoi Ashtami is observed, where mothers fast for the well-being of their sons .
Karwa Chauth holds immense cultural significance, especially in North Indian states like Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. The festival underscores the deep bond between spouses and is marked by elaborate preparations, including the decoration of puja thalis, wearing of bridal finery, and community gatherings. The act of fasting and the associated rituals symbolize devotion, love, and the strength of marital relationships.
