Karwa Chauth is an important Hindu vrat traditionally observed by married women for the well-being and long life of their husbands. On this day, devotees observe a nirjala fast, which means they refrain from both food and water throughout the day.
The fast is completed after the evening rituals and the sighting of the Moon. Women traditionally offer water, or arghya, to the Moon and then break the fast by drinking water from their husband’s hands.
When Is Karwa Chauth 2026?
According to the Panchang information provided, Karwa Chauth will be observed on October 29, 2026.
The Kartik month’s Chaturthi tithi begins at 1:07 am on October 28 and ends at 10:11 pm on October 29. Since the Chaturthi tithi is considered on October 29 according to the Udaya Tithi calculation, the Karwa Chauth vrat will be observed on that date.
The source information also states that Paridhi Yoga will occur on the day, while the Moon will transit Taurus. Gauri Yoga is also expected to be formed.
Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is traditionally associated with marital happiness, the well-being of married women and the long life of the husband. Religious traditions connect the worship performed on this day with Goddess Parvati and the blessing of akhand saubhagya, referring to lasting marital prosperity.
During the rituals, devotees also worship Karwa Mata and Lord Ganesha. Married women observe the fast while praying for their husband’s long life and a happy married life. In some traditions, unmarried women may also observe the vrat with prayers for a suitable life partner.
Karwa Chauth Puja Vidhi
The day generally begins with a bath and a sankalp, or vow, to observe the fast. In many regions, women eat sargi before sunrise before beginning the day’s fast.
During the day, devotees continue the vrat while focusing on prayers and religious observances. In the evening, the puja area is cleaned and preparations are made for the main rituals.
Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya are worshipped during the evening puja. Devotees also worship Karwa Mata, light a lamp and listen to the Karwa Chauth vrat katha.
Moon Worship and Breaking the Fast
After completing the evening puja, women wait for the Moon to rise. Once the Moon is visible, it is traditionally viewed through a sieve before water is offered as arghya.
Women then look at their husbands through the sieve as part of the customary ritual. After completing the Moon-worship ceremony, the fast is traditionally broken when the husband offers water to his wife, which she drinks to conclude the vrat.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes and describes religious traditions and Panchang details based on the source information provided. Festival dates, tithi timings and ritual practices can vary depending on the Panchang, location and regional traditions. Devotees should consult a local Panchang or qualified religious authority for location-specific timings and customs.