A Celebration of Love & Devotion
Karwa Chauth, a revered Hindu festival, sees married women fasting from dawn to moonrise, seeking their husbands' long life, health, and prosperity. Rooted in love and sacrifice, this age-old tradition has transformed over time yet stands as a profound emblem of marital devotion. Dive into its fascinating history, enchanting tales, elaborate customs, and cultural essence that define Karwa Chauth as a timeless and heartfelt celebration.
The Legends Behind the Fast
Tap a card to unveil the legendary tale behind Karwa Chauth's devotion.
The Story of Queen Veeravati
A queen's love, her seven kin, and the moon's sly betrayal.
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The Story of Queen Veeravati
Veeravati, the cherished sister of seven brothers, observed her first Karwa Chauth fast while staying at her parents' home. By evening, she grew weak from hunger and thirst. Unable to see her suffer, her brothers devised a trick—they placed a mirror behind a pipal tree to mimic the moon. Believing it was time, she broke her fast. Soon after, devastating news arrived: her husband, a king, had fallen critically ill. On her journey to him, Goddess Parvati appeared and revealed her brothers' deception. The Goddess instructed Veeravati to re-observe the fast with devotion. Veeravati faithfully followed the advice, and Yama, the god of death, had no choice but to restore her husband's life. The tale underscores the significance of faith and dedication in observing the fast.
The Legend of Savitri & Satyavan
A tale of a resolute wife who defied Death to reclaim her husband's soul.
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The Legend of Savitri & Satyavan
The story of Savitri is among the most renowned legends. A virtuous princess, she chose to marry Satyavan, a modest woodcutter, despite the sage Narada's prophecy that he would die within a year. On the destined day, Savitri accompanied her husband into the forest, where his life began to ebb away as foretold. Yama, the God of Death, arrived to claim Satyavan's soul, but Savitri, unwavering in her love and devotion, followed him. Moved by her intelligence and determination, Yama granted her several boons—everything but her husband's life. For her final boon, she requested to be blessed with children, a wish impossible without her husband. Bound by her clever request, Yama restored Satyavan's life. This tale highlights the profound strength of a wife's devotion in protecting her husband.
The Day's Sacred Rituals
Trace the Karwa Chauth journey from the early morning meal to moonrise. Tap each step to explore further.
Why the Fast is Observed
Explore the cultural, spiritual, and symbolic depths that make this festival so meaningful.
Cultural & Social Bonds
Karwa Chauth brings women together, building a sense of community. The evening puja (katha) unites married and newly engaged women, allowing them to share experiences, offer support, and deepen bonds of friendship and family.
Religious & Spiritual Prayer
Fasting at its essence is a spiritual practice (vrat), symbolizing devotion and prayer. It’s a day to honor deities such as 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 gesture is believed to strengthen the marital bond and showcase profound care and devotion.
Celebrations Across India
Though the essence stays unchanged, Karwa Chauth customs wonderfully differ across regions. The table highlights the focus on specific key rituals.