INVC NEWS
New Delhi – Karva Chauth is a highly auspicious festival celebrated annually by married women, especially in North India. Falling on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Kartik, this festival is marked by women observing a strict fast for the long life and prosperity of their husbands. In 2024, Karva Chauth holds even more significance due to the rare astrological combinations occurring on the same day. This confluence of celestial events will enhance the overall auspiciousness of the fast, offering greater divine blessings for those who observe it.
Importance of Karva Chauth: The Sacred Fast for Marital Bliss
Traditionally, women adorn themselves in their bridal attire, donning red, symbolic of marital happiness and devotion. The ritual involves worshipping Lord Ganesha and the Moon, followed by offering Arghya (water) to the Moon after sighting it in the evening sky.
This year, Karva Chauth will be observed on October 20th, 2024, and it is expected to be particularly special due to the creation of certain astrological yogas. These powerful combinations are believed to amplify the positive effects of the fast, making it an ideal time for married women to seek blessings for their spouse’s well-being and longevity.
A Rare Astrological Conjunction: Vyatipat, Guru Pushya, and Varian Yogas
According to astrological experts, the most unique aspect of Karva Chauth 2024 is the formation of three auspicious yogas on the same day. This alignment of Vyatipat Yoga, Guru Pushya Yoga, and Varian Yoga is an exceptional occurrence, enhancing the significance of the fast and its rituals.
- Vyatipat Yoga: This yoga is known for its powerful spiritual effects. It is considered highly favorable for charity and virtuous deeds. Observing a fast and making donations during Vyatipat Yoga brings immense spiritual merit, and its presence on Karva Chauth makes the festival more propitious.
- Guru Pushya Yoga: Guru Pushya Yoga is one of the most sacred yogas in Vedic astrology, and it enhances the positive outcomes of any activity undertaken during its influence. This particular combination is believed to make the prayers of married women more potent, fulfilling their heartfelt desires for a harmonious and prosperous marriage.
- Varian Yoga: This yoga further strengthens the day’s spiritual energy, making it a time of great fortune and abundance. The combination of these three yogas, especially on Karva Chauth, augments the blessings that women receive through their devout fasting and prayers.
Rituals of Karva Chauth: Key Traditions to Follow
For centuries, Karva Chauth has been observed with reverence and devotion. The day begins with women consuming the pre-dawn meal, known as Sargi, provided by their mothers-in-law. Following this, they undertake a nirjala fast, refraining from both food and water throughout the day until the moonrise.
Wearing Red: The Symbol of Devotion
One of the most important customs on Karva Chauth is wearing red attire, symbolizing marital love and fertility. Women are encouraged to dress in their bridal outfits or traditional red sarees, adorned with red bangles and vermilion in their hair parting to reflect the deep connection they share with their husbands. The color red is believed to invite positive energy and promote a long, blissful married life.
Offering Prayers to Lord Ganesha and the Moon
The fast involves elaborate pujas where women offer their devotion to Lord Ganesha and the Moon. Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is invoked to ensure a smooth and prosperous marriage. The day’s most significant ritual takes place during moonrise, where women gather to offer Arghya (water) to the Moon as they seek its blessings for their husband’s health and longevity.
Worship Under the Tulsi Tree
An additional ritual this year is especially significant due to the rare celestial combinations. Women are advised to perform puja under a Tulsi tree (Holy Basil) by lighting a diya (lamp) beneath it and listening to the Karva Chauth Katha (the story of Karva Chauth). The Tulsi tree is considered sacred in Hinduism and is believed to purify the home’s atmosphere, bring peace to the family, and foster strong marital bonds.
Special Nakshatra: The Significance of Rohini Nakshatra
Another celestial event adding to the grandeur of Karva Chauth 2024 is the presence of Rohini Nakshatra during the moonrise. Rohini is said to be the most beloved star of the Moon. In astrology, it is associated with prosperity, fertility, and well-being, making this Nakshatra particularly favorable for married women.
The Perfect Muhurat for Offering Arghya to the Moon
Timing is critical in performing the Karva Chauth puja, and in 2024, the ideal time for Arghya is after 7:40 PM. According to the Panchang, the moon will rise shortly after this time, and women should complete their puja rituals after the moon is visible in the night sky.
Breaking the Fast: A Ritual of Love
Once the Moon has risen, women offer water (Arghya) to it and pray for the longevity of their husbands. The fast is traditionally broken by viewing the moon through a sieve and then looking at their husband’s face. The husband then offers water and a sweet, marking the completion of the fast. This gesture signifies the mutual love and respect shared between the couple, strengthening their bond further.
How to Maximize the Blessings of Karva Chauth 2024
Given the presence of rare yogas and the auspicious Nakshatra, it is recommended to observe the following to maximize the spiritual benefits:
- Donate to the Needy: Offering donations during Vyatipat Yoga brings immense spiritual merit. Giving food, clothing, or financial assistance to the needy on this day is believed to bring blessings not only to the donor but also to their family.
- Listen to the Karva Chauth Katha: The Karva Chauth story recounts the tale of a devoted wife’s sacrifice for her husband, exemplifying the strength of marital devotion. Hearing this story under the Tulsi tree enhances the positive outcomes of the fast.
Perform Puja with Complete Devotion: Engaging fully in the rituals, including adorning oneself in traditional red garments, lighting a lamp under the Tulsi tree, and offering prayers to the Moon, allows women to connect deeply with their spiritual energy, ensuring that their prayers are heard.
