Karwa Chauth fasting rules 2024: Do's And don'ts to follow while observing nirjala vrat

Karwa Chauth fasting rules 2024: Karwa Chauth is one of the major and auspicious festivals celebrated by Hindu married women across India as well as around the world by women who follow Hinduism. Also known as Karak Chaturthi, this festival will be celebrated on 20th November 2024. On this day, married women observe a strict Karwa Chauth vrat (fast) for the health, prosperity, and longevity of their husbands.

The fast is traditionally kept without food and water, from sunrise to moonrise. The festival also involves worshipping Lord Ganesha, Maa Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Kartikeya. The fast is broken after the moon is sighted, with women looking through a sieve and taking their first morsel of food and sip of water from their husbands. While this ritual is mainly observed by married women, some men and even unmarried couples also participate. There are several important Karwa Chauth dos and don'ts to keep in mind while observing this fast.

Karwa Chauth 2024 Date and Timing

According to the Panchang, the Karwa Chauth 2024 date is Sunday, October 20. Here are the important timing for the festival:

Chaturthi Tithi Begins:	Sunday, October 20 at 06:46 AM
Chaturthi Tithi Ends:	Monday, October 21 at 04:16 AM
Karwa Chauth Puja Muhurat:	05:46 PM to 07:02 PM
Karwa Chauth Upavasa Time:	06:25 AM to 07:54 PM
Moonrise Timing:	07:54 PM

This festival is not only about traditions and rituals but goes beyond that. It's linked to emotions, devotion, love, and spiritual strength. There are several things that are considered inauspicious to do on Karwa Chauth. So, here we will highlight some dos and don'ts for newly married women who may not be familiar with how to observe the fast or what to avoid during it. And also some rules for husbands. Read on for more details:

Here are some Do's and Don¡¯ts for Observing Karwa Chauth 2024

Karwa Chauth Do's

Auspicious Colours to Wear on Karwa Chauth

On Karwa Chauth 2024, it¡¯s considered auspicious to wear red clothing, as this colour symbolises prosperity, energy, and strength. Other colours such as yellow, green, pink, orange, black, and white are also acceptable during the festival. Wearing these colours enhances the spiritual significance of the day and adds to the festive spirit.

Solah Shringar and Mehendi Tradition

The Solah Shringar (sixteen traditional adornments) is an important ritual for women to keep the Karwa Chauth fast. These include wearing mehendi on the hands, mangalsutra, nose pins, bindis, bangles, earrings, and other jewellery. This custom represents good fortune and a long, happy married life. It¡¯s also believed that these adornments bring blessings to the woman and her family.

Sargi: The Pre-Dawn Ritual

The Sargi ritual is a significant part of Karwa Chauth rituals. The mother-in-law prepares a special thali (platter) for her daughter-in-law, which includes fruits, dry fruits, sweets, and other delicacies. This pre-dawn meal provides the energy needed to sustain the day-long fast. Items like meethi mathri and coconut are commonly included in the sargi.

Balanced Pre-Dawn Meal

It¡¯s important to have a well-balanced pre-dawn meal rich in proteins and carbohydrates, as these foods take longer to digest and keep you feeling full throughout the day. Incorporating items like whole grains, nuts, and dairy ensures that you remain energised during the fast. This is one of the key Karwa Chauth dos for those observing the fast.

Stay Hydrated

One of the essential Karwa Chauth dos is to stay hydrated before starting the fast. Drink plenty of water and fresh fruit juices to prevent dehydration, headaches, or fatigue during the day. Avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea, as they can lead to acidity.

Baya Offering

During Karwa Chauth 2024, daughters-in-law send a special gift known as Baya to their mothers-in-law. This gift usually contains clothes, jewellery, food items, and utensils. After presenting the Baya, daughters-in-law seek the blessings of their mothers-in-law for a happy and prosperous married life.

Participation in Evening Puja

Another important Karwa Chauth ritual is attending the evening puja and Karwa Chauth Katha (story). Women observing the fast must participate in this ritual, as it is believed that skipping it makes the fast incomplete.

Don¡¯ts to Remember on Karwa Chauth

Take Care of Your Health

For those with health concerns, it¡¯s important to consult a doctor before observing the Karwa Chauth vrat. Pregnant women or those with medical conditions should listen to their bodies and not push themselves. If you feel unwell during the fast, it's best to break it and prioritise your health.

Avoid Strenuous Activities

Since Karwa Chauth is physically and mentally demanding, avoid any strenuous activities during the fast. Take rest whenever needed and keep yourself calm and relaxed to maintain your energy levels throughout the day.

Avoid Sharp Objects:

Women observing the Karwa Chauth fast should avoid cutting their hair or nails and should not use needles or scissors on this day.

Don¡¯t Compare Your Fast with Others

Everyone¡¯s experience of observing Karwa Chauth is unique. Don¡¯t compare your fast with others, as each person¡¯s capability and experience may vary. Focus on your dedication and sincerity rather than comparisons.

Don¡¯t Fast While Pregnant:

The Karwa Chauth fast can be too stressful for pregnant women and may impact the baby¡¯s health.

Stay Clear of Superstitions

Avoid getting caught up in superstitions while observing the Karwa Chauth vrat. Follow the rituals and customs with genuine intent rather than out of fear of superstitions.

Don¡¯t Stress Over Moon Sighting

If you are unable to see the moon on Karwa Chauth 2024, don¡¯t worry. What matters most is your dedication towards your husband and the sincerity with which you have observed the fast. The moon sighting is a symbolic gesture, but the spirit of the festival lies in your devotion.

Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food:

On this day, married women and their families should steer clear of tamasic foods, such as non-vegetarian dishes.

Husbands¡¯ Role During Karwa Chauth

Though Karwa Chauth is traditionally a women-centric festival, husbands play an important role. Here are some tips for husbands to make the day special:

- Stay at home and be part of the celebration.

- Help your wife in preparing food and other arrangements.

- If you need to go to work, try to return early to support your wife.

- Assist with household chores to ease her burden.

- Avoid drinking alcohol and consuming tamasik (heavy or non-vegetarian) food.

- Refrain from saying anything hurtful and ensure you make her feel appreciated.

- Respect her efforts and contribute to making the day memorable.

By following these Karwa Chauth dos and don¡¯ts, you can observe the fast with devotion and make the day special for your partner. The Karwa Chauth rituals are deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality, helping to strengthen the bond between married couples.

Happy Karwa Chauth 2024!

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.