Subham Kumar
Karwa Chauth is a special Hindu festival associated with love, marriage and marital well-being. Every year, married women observe this traditional fast and take part in different rituals with their families. The festival is also a time when couples celebrate their relationship and spend meaningful moments together.
In 2026, Karwa Chauth will be observed on Thursday, October 29. The festival falls on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi.
Karwa Chauth 2026 will be celebrated on October 29, Thursday. The exact moonrise and puja timings can vary slightly from one city to another.
For example, the Karwa Chauth puja muhurat in Gurgaon is listed as 5:39 PM to 6:57 PM, while in Ahmedabad it is 6:04 PM to 7:20 PM. Therefore, it is better to check the local timings for your city before planning the evening rituals.
The fast traditionally continues until the Moon is visible and the evening rituals are completed.
Important Karwa Chauth Rituals
Karwa Chauth includes several traditional rituals. Families may follow slightly different customs depending on their region and family traditions.
The day usually begins before sunrise with Sargi. In many families, the mother-in-law gives Sargi to her daughter-in-law. It may include fruits, sweets, dry fruits, milk and other food items.
Sargi is traditionally eaten before the fast begins. The exact items can vary according to family customs and regional traditions.
After Sargi, women traditionally observe the Karwa Chauth fast during the day. Traditionally, it is a fast without food and water until the evening moonrise.
However, fasting can affect people differently. Anyone with a medical condition, pregnancy, medication requirements or other health concerns should consult a doctor before undertaking a strict fast.
Getting dressed for Karwa Chauth is another popular part of the celebration. Many women wear traditional outfits such as sarees or lehengas and complete their look with jewellery, bangles, mehndi and other festive accessories.
The evening preparation can make the festival feel even more special for couples and families.
Before the evening puja, devotees prepare a Karwa Chauth puja thali. Common items can include a karwa, diya, roli, rice, flowers, sweets and fruits.
The exact puja items may differ according to local and family traditions.
5. Worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati
The evening puja is an important part of Karwa Chauth. Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesha are traditionally worshipped. Women also listen to or recite the Karwa Chauth vrat katha as part of the observance.
6. Listen to the Karwa Chauth Vrat Katha
The Karwa Chauth vrat katha is traditionally heard during the puja. Different regional traditions may include different versions of the story.
Listening to the katha is considered an important part of completing the traditional puja.
7. Wait for the Moonrise
After the evening rituals, women wait for the Moon to appear. The moonrise time can be different depending on the location, so checking a local Panchang is useful.
Once the Moon is visible, women traditionally look at the Moon through a sieve and offer water, known as Arghya, to the Moon.
This is one of the most recognisable rituals of Karwa Chauth.
After the Moon worship, the fast is traditionally completed. In many families, the husband offers water and food to his wife, marking the end of the fast.
Karwa Chauth is not only about the fast. It is also a celebration of love, family and togetherness. Couples can spend some quality time together, exchange thoughtful gifts and enjoy a meal after the rituals are completed.
Final Words
Karwa Chauth 2026 will be celebrated on Thursday, October 29. From Sargi and the daytime fast to the evening puja, vrat katha and Moon worship, every ritual has a special place in the traditional celebration.
While customs can differ between families and regions, the festival remains a meaningful occasion for celebrating love, companionship and family bonds.
If you are planning Karwa Chauth this year, check the local moonrise and puja timings for your city and follow the traditions that are meaningful to your family.