- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 18 Oct 2024 01:08 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Karwa Chauth 2024: Married Hindu women will observe that sacred fast of Karwa Chauth on 20th October 2024, Sunday. Karwa Chauth is a deeply significant festival for married women, who fast for their husbands' longevity and well-being. This ancient tradition symbolises marital love and togetherness. On the fourth day after the full moon, women observe a rigorous fast, abstaining from food and water. As the moon rises, they break their fast by gazing at it and their husband's face through a sieve. Celebrated mainly in northern India, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan, Karwa Chauth, also known as Karak Chaturthi, reinforces the sacred bond between spouses, demonstrating unwavering devotion.
Although traditionally reserved for married women, Karwa Chauth is also observed by unmarried women soon to be wed or seeking marriage. Additionally, some women fast in honour of their fiance or boyfriend, demonstrating love and devotion. So, can unmarried women keep Karwa Chauth vrat? let us know further.
Karwa Chauth 2024: Can Unmarried Women Observe Karwa Chauth Vrat?
Traditionally, Karwa Chauth is for married women who fast for their husband's well-being. However, times have changed, and now unmarried women also observe this fast. Engaged or soon-to-be-married women participate, showing love and devotion to their partner. This shift is more about personal choice than strict tradition.
Hindu scriptures don't explicitly say unmarried women can't observe Karwa Chauth. There's no clear "no" either. Many see it as a way for unmarried women to pray for a happy marriage. Ultimately, it's up to the individual. Some unmarried women fast for their fiancé or boyfriend, symbolising commitment. This evolving practice reflects changing social norms and individual interpretations of Hindu customs. So, while unconventional, unmarried women can choose to observe Karwa Chauth vrat, seeking blessings for their future marriage.
Married women fast for their husband's well-being on Karwa Chauth. (Image Source: Freepik)
Karwa Chauth 2024: Rules And Vidhi For Unmarried Women To Observe Karwa Chauth Vrat
- Unmarried women can eat fruits on Karwa Chauth, as nirjala vrat isn't compulsory for them.
- Unmarried women must not sit with married ladies during the Karwa Chauth puja and exchange thalis with them.
- Unmarried girls can also apply henna on their hands and adorn themselves in traditional attire and jewellery on Karwa Chauth.
- Unmarried women should worship Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Karva Mata during Karwa Chauth, focusing on the divine couple's blessings for their future marriage. They must also listen to the Karwa Chauth Vrat Katha.
- Unmarried women can break their fast by offering Arghya to the stars, rather than waiting for moonrise, without needing a sieve.
ALSO READ: Karwa Chauth 2024: Date, Shubh Muhurat, Moonrise Time, Significance And Rituals Of This Sacred Fast
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)