Karwa Chauth 2023, also known as Karaka Chaturthi, is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated primarily by women in the northern and western regions of India. Falling on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik, which typically corresponds to October or November in the Gregorian calendar, this auspicious occasion will be celebrated with great fervor on November 1 this year. It’s a fasting ritual of profound significance, where married women fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. In contemporary times, husbands also fast, expressing their love and care for their wives.
Karwa Chauth 2023
On Karwa Chauth 2023, women adorn themselves in traditional attire, apply mehndi (henna), and come together to partake in rituals and prayers. The fast is concluded after sighting the moon, traditionally through a sieve. While it is primarily a day of devotion and love expressed by wives, husbands too have a role to play in making the experience more meaningful for their partners. Here are some dos and don’ts for husbands during their wife’s Karwa Chauth fasting:
Dos:
Ensure a Healthy Meal: Make sure your spouse has a nourishing meal before starting the fast, with an emphasis on energy-rich foods, such as carbohydrates.
Hydration is Key: Ensure that she is well-hydrated before commencing the fast, as drinking enough water and beverages like lassi, chaach, or coconut water will help prevent fatigue, dry mouth, and headaches later in the day.
Quality Time: If feasible, take a break from your daily routine to spend quality time with your wife. This shows her that she is cherished and loved.
Express Gratitude: Recognize and express your gratitude for her devotion and efforts. Acknowledging her sacrifices during the fast is a meaningful way to appreciate her love and dedication.
Participate Actively: While you are not obligated to fast, consider refraining from consuming elaborate meals in front of your fasting wife as a sign of respect.
Don’ts:
Avoid Food Discussions: Divert her focus from food during meal hours by engaging in interactive activities, watching a movie, reading, listening to music, or even gardening. The idea is to keep her mind occupied and not fixated on the fact that she hasn’t eaten.
No Pressure: Do not pressure your wife to fast. If for any reason she cannot or chooses not to fast, be understanding and supportive. Encourage her to eat if she starts but is unable to continue the fast.
Maintain Positivity: On this auspicious day, steer clear of arguments or negativity, and strive to maintain a happy and harmonious atmosphere at home.
Consider Her Health: Do not insist on fasting if your wife is unwell. It is essential that she consumes the necessary nutrients to sustain her body. If she is pregnant or has an underlying medical condition, consult her doctor and obtain their permission before proceeding with the fast.
Karwa Chauth is a celebration of love, devotion, and togetherness. By following these dos and don’ts, husbands can actively participate in making this day special for their wives, reinforcing the bond of love and care.
