Karwa Chauth, often called Karaka Chaturthi, is an auspicious Hindu festival celebrated primarily by married women in India. It falls on the fourth day of the Hindu lunar month of Kartika. On this day, married women observe a day-long fast, known as "Karva Chauth ka vrat," from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. It is a day filled with rituals, prayers, and the expression of love and devotion between married couples. As we approach Karwa Chauth in 2023, the excitement and anticipation among married couples and families are palpable. This year's celebration promises to blend age-old traditions and modern adaptations as people continue to honor the festival's cultural significance while incorporating contemporary elements into their celebrations. Why is Karva Chauth Celebrated? Karwa Chauth holds immense significance in Indian culture. It symbolizes a wife's unwavering love and devotion towards her husband. The fast strengthens the bond between spouses and is considered a prayer for the husband's long and prosperous life. The festival also promotes togetherness; women often gather in groups to celebrate and break their fasts together. It is believed to have originated as a means for women to pray for the safety and well-being of their husbands, who often went on long journeys and faced various risks. The story of Queen Veeravati, who observed a strict fast on Karwa Chauth and the subsequent divine intervention that saved her husband's life, is a popular narrative associated with the festival. Over the centuries, Karwa Chauth has evolved in its customs and rituals. While fasting remains the core element, women today have access to various modern conveniences that make the fasting experience more manageable. Additionally, regional variations have led to unique practices and adaptations, enriching the festival's diversity. Which Day is Celebrated as Karwa Chauth? Karwa Chauth is celebrated on a specific day in the Hindu calendar, which changes each year. This day usually falls in October or November. It is celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu lunar month of Kartika, which typically falls in October or November of the Gregorian calendar. On this day, married women fast from sunrise to moonrise. They don't eat or drink anything during that time. They do this to pray for their husbands' health and long life. So, the date of Karwa Chauth changes every year because it follows the Hindu calendar, which is different from the regular calendar we use. Preparations and Planning of Karwa Chauth 2023 One of the most exciting aspects of Karwa Chauth is the shopping frenzy that precedes it. Women seek the perfect ensemble, often opting for traditional attire like saris, lehengas, or suits in vibrant colors. The markets come alive with stalls selling Karwa Chauth special clothing, jewelry, and accessories, adding to the festive atmosphere. Decorating the puja thali Central to the Karwa Chauth rituals is the beautifully decorated puja thali. Women meticulously arrange items like a karwa (sacred pitcher), idols of deities, vermilion, sweets, and incense sticks on a decorative plate. This thali is used during the evening prayer, adding a sense of sanctity to the occasion. Fasting and its significance Fasting from sunrise to moonrise is the cornerstone of Karwa Chauth. During this period, women refrained from food and water to demonstrate devotion and determination. The fast is broken only after the moon is sighted, typically with the husband's assistance. Mehndi and beauty preparations In the days leading up to Karwa Chauth, women indulge in beauty treatments, including getting intricate mehndi (henna) designs applied on their hands and feet. Mehndi symbolizes love and prosperity and adds an artistic touch to the overall preparations for the festival. Women often visit beauty salons for grooming and styling to look their best on this special day. As Karwa Chauth 2023 approaches, these preparations and rituals will again come to life, creating an atmosphere of love, tradition, and celebration that has been cherished for generations. How Do We Celebrate Karva Chauth? The day of Karwa Chauth begins with the pre-dawn meal, known as "Sargi," consumed by the fasting women. Sargi typically consists of foods like fenia (sweet vermicelli), dry fruits, and fruits, providing energy for the day ahead. Once Sargi is consumed, the fast begins, and women abstain from food and water until moonrise. The period between sunrise and moonrise on Karwa Chauth is marked by unwavering patience and anticipation. Women go about their daily chores while constantly mindful of the fast. Many choose to engage in activities like reading religious scriptures or spending time with family to pass the time. Throughout the day, women often come together in group gatherings, discussing, sharing stories, and supporting one another during the fast. These gatherings relieve the sense of isolation during the day and reinforce the sense of community and togetherness. The daytime rituals of Karwa Chauth include visiting temples or organizing small prayer ceremonies at home. Married women offer prayers for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. The Karwa Chauth puja thali, prepared earlier, plays a central role in these rituals. Women light incense sticks, offer prayers to deities, and apply vermilion to the idols as a symbol of devotion. The significance of sighting the moon The most awaited moment of Karwa Chauth is the sighting of the moon. It symbolizes the successful completion of the fast and is believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the married couple. Women eagerly scan the evening sky, waiting for the first glimpse of the moon. Rituals and customs during moonrise Once the moon is sighted, there are specific rituals to be followed. The husband stands with his wife and offers her water and food to break her fast. This moment is incredibly emotional and signifies the husband's gratitude for his wife's love and sacrifice. The wife also prays for her husband's well-being during this time. Sharing a meal with family and friends After breaking the fast, families and friends come together for a hearty meal. The meal often includes a variety of dishes, including the wife's favorite foods. It's a joyous celebration as everyone partakes in the meal, reinforcing bonds and celebrating the love between married couples. Exchange of gifts and love between spouses Karwa Chauth also involves the exchange of gifts between husbands and wives. Husbands often surprise their wives with thoughtful gifts as a token of their appreciation for their dedication and love. This gesture adds warmth and affection to the celebrations, making them memorable. The message of love, devotion, and togetherness At its core, Karwa Chauth conveys a powerful message of love and devotion. It is a day when spouses express their unwavering commitment to one another, reaffirming their love through fasting, prayers, and rituals. Breaking the fast under the moonlit sky exchanging heartfelt words and gifts, serves as a poignant reminder of the love and togetherness that strengthen the foundation of a happy and harmonious marital life. As we eagerly await the arrival of Karwa Chauth in the year 2023, it is evident that this cherished tradition will continue to thrive and evolve. With the infusion of modern elements, changing gender roles, and embracing diversity, Karwa Chauth remains a dynamic and culturally rich celebration. It is a festival that bridges the past and the present, and with each passing year, it reinforces the significance of love, devotion, and the enduring bond between spouses. As we look forward to celebrating Karwa Chauth in 2023 and beyond, we do so with the hope that it will continue to bring happiness, strength, and unity to families and couples worldwide.