Popular Hindu holiday Karwa Chauth is mostly observed by married ladies in India and other countries. The day, also known as Karak Chaturthi, is marked by fasting and ceremonies performed in remembrance of their spouses’ long lives and wellbeing. An important part of the celebration is the clay pot, or “karwa,” which is used to present water to the moon, also known as Argha, signifying the end of the fast.

Time & Date of Karwa Chauth in 2024

Karwa Chauth will be celebrated on Sunday, October 20, in 2024. October 20 at 6:46 AM and October 21 at 4:16 AM is when the Chaturthi Tithi takes place. The Puja Muhurat for today is scheduled to begin at 5:46 PM and end at 7:02 PM, for a total of one hour and sixteen minutes. The 13 hours and 29 minutes of the Upavasa, or fasting period, begin at 6:25 AM and end at 7:54 PM. At 7:54 PM, the moonrise is anticipated, which is a crucial time for breaking the fast.

The Background and Importance of Karwa Chauth

Numerous folktales are entwined with the origins of Karwa Chauth. Among the most famous is the story of Queen Veeravati, who was duped by her siblings into breaking her fast early on the pretext that the moon had risen. She prayed to Goddess Parvati after learning that her husband had died, and with her grace, he was revived. The importance of faith and commitment in marriage is emphasized in this narrative.

Another Mahabharata tale describes Draupadi, who complied with Lord Krishna’s stringent fasting instructions to make sure her husband Arjuna was safe during his meditation retreat. In the end, her fasting allowed Arjuna to return safely.

These tales accentuate the festival’s central theme, which is one of love, loyalty, and trust in one’s spouse’s well.

Customs and Traditions

The customs surrounding Karwa Chauth are well ingrained:

Married ladies fast strictly, depriving themselves of food and liquids from dawn till moonrise.

Puja: Ladies offer prayers to a variety of deities, including Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Shiva.

Breaking the Fast: Offerings are offered and the fast is only broken once the moon is visible.

Karwa Offering: Argha is offered to the moon in an earthen pot, or “karwa,” that has been filled with water.

Festivities All Over India

Large celebrations are held on Karwa Chauth, particularly in northern and western India. The festival’s joyous atmosphere is enhanced by the fluttering of colorful decorations, traditional attire, and confections at the markets. Although regional variations may exist in the rites and traditions, the fundamental substance of the celebration is always the same: love, dedication, and the holy tie of marriage.