'Karwa Chauth' is a ritual of fast observed by married Hindu women seeking the longevity, well-being and prosperity of their husbands. It is popular among married women in the northern and western parts of India. This festival comes nine days before Diwali on 'kartik ki chauth', i.e., on the fourth day of the new moon immediately after Dusshera, in the month of 'Karthik' (October-November). This year it falls on Friday, November 2, 2012 with moon rise at 08:29 pm India time. (Please check local calendar for time in your country or region)
In the evening, women dress up in special clothes, usually a red or pink sari or 'lehenga-choli' with gold woven 'zari' patterns. New brides often wear their bridal costume. All deck up in jewelry and wear 'mehendi' or henna patterns especially on the hands. Decorative 'bindis' on the forehead are a must for all women taking part in this celebration. Fasting women from all over the neighborhood gather in a group and narrate mythological stories that underscore the significance of Karwa Chauth. And, of course, all wives expect lavish gifts from their husbands!
The fast of Karwa Chawth truly sets the merry tone of the fun and frolic, festivity and feasting that come in good measure during Diwali -- the biggest festival of the Hindus. Read more...
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I love this holiday because it mirrors the one where men starve for their wives…oh wait, there IS no such thing. The men in our culture would never do something like that for their women lol.
Husbands do not give gifts to wives at Karwa Chauth. Mothers-in law give Sargi (sweet, mehndi and money or jewellry) to the daughters-in law and in return they give them money or a gift of a sari or something.
this is a beautiful festival dying to observe this fast for my husband
I think that last sentence was sarcasm, I have been fasting for 44 years and no presents!
Like Valentines Day they are trying to make old traditions generally celebrated amongst women, romantic. Indian Husbands are just present, but don’t gift or do anything else in this holiday. Daughter in law and Mother in law exchange gifts. Women dress in Bridal wear to stay motivated and remember all the symbols signifying being a married woman. If anything it feels like a day were woman are reminded of their marital duties to husband and family. Girls don’t get your hopes up – it’s not like the movies or tv serials.