Karva Chauth is a Hindu festival mainly celebrated in North India by married women. According to legend, a devoted wife once fasted to save her husband from death. Moved by her love and dedication, the gods blessed her husband with long life. This tradition of fasting for the husband’s well-being has continued ever since.
The word “Karva” means “earthen pot” (used in the rituals), and “Chauth” means “fourth”, as it falls on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik.
Karva Chauth represents love, loyalty, and devotion between husband and wife. Women observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the safety and long life of their husbands. It also strengthens the emotional bond between couples and celebrates marital harmony.
The day begins early with Sargi, a pre-dawn meal prepared by the mother-in-law for her daughter-in-law. Women then fast all day without food or water. In the evening, they gather in groups dressed in red or traditional attire, apply mehndi, and perform Karva Chauth Puja, listening to the story of Queen Veeravati.
Once the moon rises, women look at it through a sieve, then see their husband’s face and take the first sip of water and food from his hands — marking the end of the fast. The night ends with prayers, blessings, and festive dinners shared with family.
