Karwa Chauth 2023: The much-awaited festival of Karwa Chauth, also known as Karak Chaturthi, is swiftly approaching and is scheduled for November 1st this year. This festival holds immense significance for married women as they embark on a challenging nirjala vrat, which involves fasting without food and water, all in the name of their husbands’ safety and prosperity. The fast commences at sunrise and culminates at moonrise. The day is marked by dedicated worship of deities, including Lord Ganesha, Maa Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Kartikeya, with the ultimate goal of breaking the fast upon sighting the moon. Following the moon’s sighting through a sieve, married women partake in a humble morsel of food and a sip of water, lovingly offered by their husbands.
Karwa Chauth 2023
Karwa Chauth 2023: While the Karwa Chauth 2023 vrat is traditionally observed by married women, it is essential to note that married men and unmarried couples are also known to participate. However, there are several customs and guidelines to follow when observing this festival.
Dos and Don’ts for a Smooth Karwa Chauth Fast:
Dress Code: Red is the predominant color associated with Karwa Chauth, symbolizing auspiciousness and worn by women during the festivities. However, married women have the option to choose from other vibrant colors like yellow, green, pink, and orange. It’s advised to steer clear of black or white shades.
Solah Sringar and Mehendi: The practice of ‘solah sringar,’ which involves adorning oneself in sixteen traditional embellishments, and applying intricate mehendi designs on the hands is an essential part of Karva Chauth Puja. Married women should apply henna a day prior to Karak Chaturthi and don traditional attire, preferably in red. This ritual represents good fortune, prosperity, and a happy married life.
Sargi Ritual: Sargi, a special thali filled with various food items and gifts, is a significant aspect of the Karwa Chauth vrat. Mother-in-laws present it to their daughters-in-law. This thali is consumed as a pre-dawn meal, serving as a source of essential nutrients and energy. Sargi typically includes items such as pheni, meethi seviyan, fruits, coconut, meethi mathri, dry fruits, sweets, paratha, and juice.
Balanced Pre-Dawn Meal: The pre-dawn meal should be well-balanced, rich in protein and carbohydrates, as they take longer to digest and help sustain throughout the day.
Hydration is Key: Before the fast begins, it’s crucial to consume an adequate amount of water to prevent dehydration, which can lead to headaches and fatigue. Fresh fruit juices can be a valuable addition, while coffee and tea should be avoided to prevent acidity.
Avoid Sharp Objects: Women observing the Karwa Chauth vrat should steer clear of using scissors, needles, or knives during the fast.
Pregnancy Consideration: Pregnant women are advised to abstain from keeping the Karwa Chauth fast as it may exert stress on their health.
Baya Offering: Daughters-in-law traditionally present a special gift, known as “Baya,” to their mothers-in-law. This gift typically comprises clothing, jewelry, food, and utensils. It’s important to seek blessings from the mother-in-law when offering the Baya.
Vegetarian Diet: Married women and their families should refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food on this day, as it is considered tamasic (having qualities of inertia) in nature.
Karwa Chauth Puja Participation: The Karwa Chauth fast is incomplete without the participation of married women in the Karwa Chauth puja, where they listen to the Katha (a religious story) in the evening before breaking the fast.
As the auspicious Karwa Chauth approaches, adhering to these customs and practices will ensure a smooth and fulfilling celebration for married women, their families, and all those participating in this cherished festival.
