Arun Jasrotia
Udhampur,TDD,As the autumn moon rises over India on October 20, 2024, millions of married women will observe Karwa Chauth fast, a centuries-old Hindu festival that blends devotion, folklore, and marital bonds. This year, the festival falls on a Sunday, with the auspicious fasting period beginning at 6:46 AM and concluding the following day at 4:16 AM.
Karwa Chauth, primarily celebrated in northern India, is a day when wives fast from sunrise to moonrise for the longevity, prosperity, and well-being of their husbands. The tradition, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and culture, has evolved over time but remains a significant expression of love and commitment in many Indian households.
The festival’s origins are shrouded in various mythological tales, each emphasizing the power of a wife’s devotion. One popular legend tells the story of Queen Veeravati, whose brothers tricked her into breaking her fast prematurely, resulting in her husband’s sudden illness. Realizing her mistake, Veeravati’s renewed dedication and penance not only saved her husband but also earned her the blessings of Goddess Parvati.
Another narrative links the festival to the Mahabharata epic, where Draupadi observed the fast for the safety of her husband Arjuna, following Lord Krishna’s advice. These stories underscore the festival’s themes of devotion, sacrifice, and the believed spiritual power of a wife’s love.
The day-long fast is broken after moonrise, following elaborate rituals. Women dress in their finest attire, often favoring red—the color of matrimony in Hindu tradition. They apply intricate henna designs on their hands and gather for communal prayers. A unique aspect of the festival is the custom of viewing the moon through a sieve before looking at their husband’s face, a practice steeped in symbolism.
The sieve-viewing tradition is said to stem from a mythological curse on the moon god, Chandra, by Lord Ganesha. It’s believed that looking at the moon directly on this night could bring misfortune, hence the use of the sieve as a protective filter. This custom also symbolizes the wife’s role as a protective influence in her husband’s life.
In recent years, Karwa Chauth has seen a blend of traditional practices with modern interpretations. Many couples now observe the fast together, turning it into a shared expression of mutual love and respect. The festival has also gained popularity through Bollywood depictions, often romanticizing the ritual for younger generations.
As India continues to navigate between tradition and modernity, Karwa Chauth remains a vibrant part of its cultural tapestry. Whether seen as a romantic gesture, a spiritual practice, or a cultural tradition, the festival continues to captivate and evolve, reflecting the changing dynamics of Indian marriages and society at large.TDD
