Annual Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Karva Chauth
Karva Chauth is a one-day fast observed by married Hindu women for the long life, health, and prosperity of their husbands. It falls on Chaturthi (4th day) of the Krishna Paksha in Kartik month, a month before Diwali. Women observe a complete waterless fast (nirjala) from sunrise until moonrise, breaking the fast only after sighting the moon through a sieve while looking at their husband.
Last updated: 19 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Ensures long life of husband, strengthens marital bond, brings prosperity and happiness in marriage, fulfills desires related to family, and earns divine blessings for the couple.
Procedure
Pre-dawn meal (Sargi) before sunrise. Complete nirjala fast all day. In evening, perform Karva Chauth puja with all married women of the family. Listen to the Karva Chauth Vrat Katha. At moonrise, view moon through sieve, then view husband through same sieve. Husband gives first sip of water and first bite of food.
When to Observe
Kartik Krishna Chaturthi — one fixed day per year (October/November).
Fasting Rules
Complete nirjala fast (no food, no water) from sunrise to moonrise. Only Sargi (pre-dawn meal) before fast begins.
How to Break the Fast
After moonrise, husband offers first sip of water and first bite of food to wife after moon viewing ritual.
FAQ
Q.What is Karva Chauth?
Karva Chauth is a one-day fast observed by married Hindu women for the long life, health, and prosperity of their husbands. It falls on Chaturthi (4th day) of the Krishna Paksha in Kartik month, a month before Diwali. Women observe a complete waterle...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Karva Chauth?
Complete nirjala fast (no food, no water) from sunrise to moonrise. Only Sargi (pre-dawn meal) before fast begins.
Q.When should Karva Chauth be observed?
Kartik Krishna Chaturthi — one fixed day per year (October/November).
Q.What are the benefits of Karva Chauth?
Ensures long life of husband, strengthens marital bond, brings prosperity and happiness in marriage, fulfills desires related to family, and earns divine blessings for the couple.