Karwa Chauth is a world renowned tradition, representing India as a country full of love and traditions. This event has not been just in vogue in current soaps, but has played a big part in almost any other movie made in Hindi cinema. This festival is observed by Hindu married women belonging mainly from Northern and Western India. Few states which extensively participate in the event are Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat and many more.
Every married Hindu woman is supposed to establish a fast on this very day from the break of dawn till they see the moon at night. Women pray for their husbands all day long apart from not eating and drinking. The biggest feature of the prayers is the asking God for long life and wellbeing of their husbands. This ritual has its basis on strengthening bonds between husbands and their wives. This also shows the importance of family and relationships in India. Indian culture mostly believes in monogamy, and that signifies the importance of a partner in a person’s life. The preparations begin with women getting dressed up for the day, and adorning themselves with henna and jewellery. The day progresses as they pray to Lord Shiva, Ganesha, Parvati and Kartikeya, as well the pot of clay called Karwa. In some traditions, women begin their fast by having their last meal sent by their mother-in-laws called Sargi.
Similarly, women receive Baya,a gift of clothes and sweets from the mother-in-law as well. The whole day is passed by listening to the legend of Karwa Chauth. Finally after seeing the moon through the sieve and worshipping it, women take their first sip of water and first bite of food, by their husband’s hands, after seeing them through the sieve. This is how the day of Karwa Chauth culminates as being one of the most important days in the relationship of a Hindu couple.
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