Karwa Chauth is considered one of the most important Fasts observed by married Hindu women. On this day the women pray for the welfare and long life of their husbands. The festival is followed mainly in the northern parts of the country.
Married women eat food early in the morning, before sunrise. They are not supposed to eat or even drink water during the day. In the evening the ladies listen to the Karwa Chauth Katha (the legend). Once the moon rises, the women look at its reflection in a thali of water, or through a dupatta or a sieve. They offer water to the moon and seek blessings. They pray for the safety, prosperity, and long life of their husbands. This marks the end of the day-long fast.
Karwa Chauth Thali Decoration
A decorated thali is very important for performing the Karva Chauth puja. A puja thali, also known as Baya, contains the roli, vermilion, sacred water, dry fruits like almonds, pishta, etc., earthen clay pots, diyas and various types of Indian sweets, in their respective katoris, is tastefully decorated. The art of creating attractive thalis for puja may also contain ritualistic decorations like rangoli and alpana. Puja thali can be decorated with floral designs using flowers, leaves, color, and also with multicolored pulses.
On this auspicious day, Ma Gauri, or goddess Parvati is worshiped. Married women sit around Gauri ma and pray to her for the well-being and long life of their husbands. A small pitcher or Karva with some water is placed in the center. While the story is being narrated, ladies circulate their decorated Baya thalis. After the puja, this thali is given to the eldest member of the family who blesses the woman with all the happiness in life.
Nowadays customized Karwa Chauth pooja thali is also available online. A photo of husband and wife is printed on puja thali.
