Karwa Chauth is one of the most significant and revered festivals for married Hindu women, observed on the Chaturthi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik. On this auspicious day, women observe a strict 'nirjala' (without water) fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the long, healthy, and prosperous life of their husbands. The fast concludes only after offering prayers to the moon in the evening.
Karwa Chauth 2026 Date and Auspicious Muhurat
According to the Hindu calendar, the Karwa Chauth fast in 2026 will be observed on Thursday, October 29. The Chaturthi Tithi will begin late at night on October 28 or early hours of October 29 at 1:06 AM and will conclude on October 29 at 10:09 PM. Due to the prevailing tithi during the day and evening, the fast will be observed on October 29 itself.
The most auspicious time for performing the Karwa Chauth puja on October 29, 2026, will be from 5:38 PM to 6:56 PM. During this window, women will gather to perform rituals and listen to the traditional Karwa Chauth Vrat Katha.
Moonrise Time and Breaking the Fast
Sighting the moon holds paramount importance in the observance of Karwa Chauth. Women cannot break their fast without offering 'arghya' to the moon. On October 29, 2026, the moon is expected to rise around 8:17 PM. However, actual moonrise timings may slightly vary depending on the geographical location, and women are advised to verify local timings.
Rituals and Puja Vidhi
The day begins before sunrise with the consumption of 'Sargi' given by the mother-in-law, followed by taking a pledge for the day-long fast. In the afternoon, women dress in traditional bridal attire, adorn themselves with Solah Shringar, and engage in community prayers. In the evening, idols or images of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha are worshipped.
Upon the sighting of the moon, women look at the moon and their husbands through a sieve (chalni), offer water, and seek blessings. The husband then feeds water and sweets to his wife to break her fast, after which she touches her elders' feet to seek blessings for a lifelong bond.
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Culture & Spirituality Desk, The Freelance
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