Sunday, October 16, 2005

Karva Chauth - Thursday 20th October 2005

Karva Chauth falls on Thursday 20th October. Those who watch Hindi movies, will have seen this festival being celebrated - think of Kabhie Khushi Kabhi Gham...

The origin and significance of the fast is to ensure the well-being, prosperity and longevity of the husbands. Which means, that traditionally the fast is observed by married women only. However, traditions are changing, and many unmarried young women observe the fast for their future husbands or beloved, that wherever they may be, may they be happy and healthy.

The festival of Karva Chauth provides an opportunity for all married women to get close to their in-laws. Possessing a tremendous social and cultural significance, this festival is celebrated by keeping a strict fast, applying henna and exchange of gifts.

Celebrated mostly by North Indians, the festival is growing bigger due to its portrayal in the media, and commercial enterprise opportunities too. Along with traditional items such as mehandi, beauty products and fashionable clothes, the demand of special eateries are also gearing up. Nowadays, Karva Chauth is more of a fun festival than a serious and loving fast.

However, I strongly believe that any fast which is observed with shraddha, a pure mind and heart, will not only be beneficial for the person the male partner the fast is being held for, but the female too.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Wellcome back..thank you..