Women's Vrat Festivals
Karwa Chauth Guide: Nirjala Vrat, Sargi, Moon Sighting & Shiva-Parvati Puja
Bhakti Voice
भक्ति वॉइस
Observed on the day Chaturthi Tithi prevails during moonrise (Chandrodaya Vyapini).
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Karwa Chauth is an austere and deeply revered fast observed by married Hindu women for the longevity, prosperity, and well-being of their husbands. Celebrated on the Chaturthi (fourth day) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartika, women observe a strict dawn-to-dusk 'Nirjala' fast (abstaining from food and water). The day commences before sunrise with the consumption of 'Sargi' (a pre-dawn meal gifted by the mother-in-law). The fast concludes only after offering Arghya (holy water) to the Moon God through a sieve and viewing the husband's face.
The story
Traditions
Puja at home
Frequently asked questions
What is the importance of 'Sargi' in Karwa Chauth?
Sargi is a traditional pre-dawn thali of sweets, fruits, feni, and dry fruits given by the mother-in-law as a blessing. It provides vital energy for the grueling waterless fast ahead.
Why is the moon viewed through a sieve (Chhalni)?
The sieve diffuses the harsh rays of the moon. Viewing the moon and then the husband through the sieve symbolizes filtering out negativity and praying for the husband's long, unblemished life.
Can unmarried women observe Karwa Chauth?
Yes, unmarried or engaged women often observe this fast for their future husbands. However, they typically break their fast by looking at the Pole Star (Tara) rather than the moon.