A Celebration of Love & Devotion
Karwa Chauth is a beloved Hindu festival where married women fast from sunrise to moonrise, seeking blessings for their husbands' health, happiness, and long life. Rooted in love and devotion, this age-old tradition has transformed over time yet continues to embody the essence of marital commitment. Dive into this guide to uncover the fascinating history, enchanting tales, detailed customs, and cultural importance that define the beauty of Karwa Chauth.
The Legends Behind the Fast
Tap a card to explore the legendary story behind Karwa Chauth's devotion.
The Story of Queen Veeravati
A story of a kind queen, her seven siblings, and the moon's betrayal.
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The Story of Queen Veeravati
Veeravati, the cherished sister of seven brothers, observed her first Karwa Chauth at her parents' home, fasting diligently. By evening, she grew weak from hunger and thirst. Unable to watch her suffer, her brothers devised a trick, creating a fake moon with a mirror behind a pipal tree. Believing it was nightfall, she broke her fast, only to soon hear that her husband, the king, was critically ill. Distraught, she encountered Goddess Parvati, who exposed the ruse and instructed her to reobserve the fast with true devotion. Veeravati complied, and Yama, the god of death, had no choice but to revive her husband. This tale underscores the power of faith and dedication in observing Karwa Chauth.
The Legend of Savitri & Satyavan
A tale of a resolute wife reclaiming her husband’s life from Death’s grasp.
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The Legend of Savitri & Satyavan
The tale of Savitri is among the most renowned legends. A virtuous princess, Savitri chose to wed Satyavan, a modest woodcutter, despite Sage Narada's prophecy that he would die within a year. On the destined day, she accompanied Satyavan into the forest, where his life began to fade. Yama, the God of Death, arrived to claim his soul, but Savitri, steadfast in love and devotion, pursued him. Moved by her wisdom and determination, Yama granted her several boons—except her husband's life. Cleverly, Savitri requested the blessing of children, which, as a loyal wife, she could only have with Satyavan. Bound by this logic, Yama restored his life. The story highlights a wife's unwavering strength to safeguard her husband.
The Day's Sacred Rituals
Trace Karwa Chauth from pre-dawn rituals to moonrise. Tap each step to explore further.
Why the Fast is Observed
Explore the rich cultural, spiritual, and symbolic depths that define this festival's significance.
Cultural & Social Bonds
Karwa Chauth brings women together, fostering community and connection. The evening puja (katha) unites married and newly engaged women, who share experiences, offer support, and deepen bonds of friendship and family during the fast.
Religious & Spiritual Prayer
Fasting is fundamentally a prayer (vrat), symbolizing spiritual devotion and discipline. Dedicated to deities like Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha, women abstain from food and water, seeking blessings for their husband's well-being, long life, and prosperity.
Symbol of Marital Love
Fasting symbolizes a wife's deep love and sacrifice, reflecting her commitment and readiness to face hardship for her partner's well-being. This heartfelt act is believed to fortify the marital bond and convey unwavering care and devotion.
Celebrations Across India
Though the essence stays unchanged, Karwa Chauth customs beautifully differ across regions. The chart highlights the focus on key rituals.