Major Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Karva Chauth
Karva Chauth is one of the most beloved festivals for married Hindu women, observed on the fourth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik month. Wives observe a strict nirjala (without water) fast from sunrise until they sight the moon at night, praying for their husband's long life, health, and prosperity. The word "Karva" means a clay pot (used in puja) and "Chauth" means the fourth. After moonrise, women view the moon through a sieve, then view their husband's face through the same sieve, and break their fast with water given by their husband. The festival has deep roots in Punjabi and Rajasthani tradition.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
The ultimate expression of a wife's love and devotion — sacrificing food and water for an entire day to ensure her husband's longevity. The ritual of viewing the moon through a sieve symbolizes the filtering of divine blessing onto the family.
Rituals & Traditions
Fast from sunrise (strictly no food or water). Apply mehndi and wear bridal attire with all shringar. Listen to Karva Chauth katha in a women's group. Offer prayers to the moon after moonrise. View moon through sieve, then husband's face. Husband gives the first sip of water to break the fast. Exchange gifts.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Karva Chauth?
Karva Chauth is one of the most beloved festivals for married Hindu women, observed on the fourth day of the dark fortnight of Kartik month. Wives observe a strict nirjala (without water) fast from sunrise until they sight the moon at night, praying ...
Q.What is the significance of Karva Chauth?
The ultimate expression of a wife's love and devotion — sacrificing food and water for an entire day to ensure her husband's longevity. The ritual of viewing the moon through a sieve symbolizes the filtering of divine blessing onto the family.
Q.What are the rituals of Karva Chauth?
Fast from sunrise (strictly no food or water). Apply mehndi and wear bridal attire with all shringar. Listen to Karva Chauth katha in a women's group. Offer prayers to the moon after moonrise. View moon through sieve, then husband's face. Husband gives the first sip of water to break the fast. Exchange gifts.
Q.What foods are made during Karva Chauth?
Sargi (pre-dawn meal with fenia, fruits, mathri), Kheer, Halwa, Puri, Mathri