Karva Chauth is a significant festival observed by married women in India. They observe a strict fast, without water (Nirjala Vrat), praying for the long life and good health of their husbands. This fast is kept on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Kartik. According to the Drik Panchang, Karva Chauth in 2024 will be observed on 20th October.
The Tradition of “Sargi”
On Karva Chauth, women wake up early before sunrise to eat Sargi, which is a pre-dawn meal traditionally given by the mother-in-law. The Sargi platter typically includes fruits, dry fruits, sweets, beauty items, and a saree. After eating the Sargi, women take a vow (Sankalp) to observe the fast. It is important to eat Sargi before the sun rises, as this marks the beginning of the fast. After this, women fast for the entire day without consuming food or water until they break the fast in the evening by offering water to the moon (Chandradev) and then to their husbands.
Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Karva Chauth
Observing certain rules is believed to be crucial for reaping the full benefits of this fast. Here are the main guidelines to follow during Karva Chauth:
Things to Avoid During Karva Chauth
- Waking Up Late: Women should not wake up late on Karva Chauth, as the fast begins with the sunrise. It is advised to start the day early with the pre-dawn Sargi.
- Wearing Black or Brown: It is considered inauspicious to wear black or brown clothes on Karva Chauth. Instead, wearing red is deemed auspicious for the occasion, symbolizing good fortune and marital bliss.
- Sharing or Borrowing Makeup Items: On this day, women should avoid giving their makeup or Shringar items to other women. Similarly, they should not borrow any makeup items from others.
- Using Harsh or Negative Language: Women observing the fast should refrain from using foul language or speaking harshly. Instead, they should focus on maintaining a positive atmosphere, especially by respecting elders and seeking their blessings.
- Avoid Quarreling with Husband: It is believed that engaging in arguments or quarrels with the husband during the fast can diminish the benefits of the ritual.
- Donating White Items: Women should avoid donating white items such as white clothes, milk, or white sweets on Karva Chauth, as this is considered inauspicious on this day.
- Avoiding Sharp Objects: Women should refrain from using sharp objects such as needles and thread during the fast, as this is believed to bring negative energy or bad luck.
By observing these guidelines, it is believed that married women can ensure the full spiritual and traditional benefits of the Karva Chauth fast, securing the well-being and longevity of their husbands.