Karaka Chaturthi (Karva Chauth) is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in North India. It falls on the fourth day after the full moon in the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik, typically in October or November. The festival is known for its rigorous fast kept by married women for the well-being, prosperity, and longevity of their husbands.

History and Traditions:

The origins of Karva Chauth are not definitively known, but there are various legends associated with it. One popular mythological tale links the festival to Queen Veervati and her penance to protect her husband's life. Another story is about Draupadi from the epic Mahabharata, who observed a similar fast upon advice from Lord Krishna.

Rituals on Karva Chauth:

• Fasting: Married women observe a nirjala fast (without food or water) from sunrise until moonrise for their husbands' long life.
• Sargi: The day begins with 'sargi,' a pre-dawn meal given to fasting women by their mothers-in-law.
• Dressing Up: Women wear bridal attire, symbolizing their wedding day.
• Mehndi: Applying henna on hands and feet is customary as it signifies prosperity and is considered auspicious.
• Karva Chauth Puja: In the evening, women gather for a community prayer (puja), where they listen to the Karva Chauth Katha (narrative).
• Moonrise Rituals: Once the moon rises, women view it through a sieve or cloth before breaking their fast by looking at their husbands in a similar manner. They then drink water and eat food offered by their husbands.

Karva Chauth has evolved over time but remains an important cultural event symbolizing love and devotion within marriage.