Here are interesting facts about Karva Chauth

Karva Chauth is a festival celebrated by married women for the well being and longevity of their husbands, in the states of the northwestern part of India particularly Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan.

Karva Chauth is a festival celebrated by married women for the well being and longevity of their husbands, in the states of northwestern part of India particularly Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan. EPS|Martin Louis 

Karva means ‘pot’ and Chauth means ‘fourth’ in Hindi. Karva is the decorated earthen pot that are exchanged among women. Chauth signifies the day of the month. | PTI

Make up of Suhaagin – Women wear beautiful saris and jewellery. They apply henna on their hands. In addition to that Sindoor and Bindi also enhance the beauty of a woman.

Married women looking at the moon through a sieve as part of a ritual to break her fast during Karva Chauth festival in Chennai on Sunday. EPS| Martin Louis.

Once the moon is visible, women watch moon through a sieve and offer water (arka) to secure its blessings. They then turn towards their husbands and see them in the same manner, through the sieve and pray for the long life of their husbands.

Women apply henna and other cosmetics to themselves and each other. The day passes in meeting friends and relatives.

Men, mostly in urban areas have started observing a similar fast for their beloved wifes, depicted beautifully in the movie Baghban. (Youtube screengrab)

Story of Veerwati – This is the most common story of Karva Chauth. Befooled by her brothers, Veerwati broke her fast. The moment she ate word arrived that her husband was dead. But after completion of fast with complete devotion, life of her husband was restored.

Story of Mahabharata – Draupadi observed the fast with all its rituals for the safety and well being of Pandavas.

Karva Chauth is slowly taking over the valentine’s day as many young and unmarried ladies have started celebrating Karva Chauth for their true lovers and fiancés.