Karva Chauth - Thursday, October 29, 2026

Karwa Chauth is an ancient festival that has evolved into a beautiful celebration of partnership. Observed on the fourth day of the waning moon in the month of Kartik, it is a day defined by discipline, devotion, and the anticipation of the moonrise.

In 2026, Karwa Chauth falls on Thursday, October 29. Because Thursday is the day of Guru (Jupiter), the planet of domestic bliss, this year's fast is considered highly beneficial for strengthening the marital bond.

1. 2026 Muhurat & The Golden Window

For the fast to be spiritually complete, the Puja should be performed during the Pradosh Kaal (twilight).

2. Expected Moonrise Timings (City-Wise)

The most searched part of Karwa Chauth. Here are the predicted timings for 2026:

• New Delhi: 08:07 PM

• Mumbai: 08:42 PM

• Bangalore: 08:33 PM

• Kolkata: 07:31 PM

• Chennai: 08:22 PM

• Jaipur: 08:16 PM

• London (UK): 05:45 PM (GMT)

• New York (USA): 06:12 PM (EST)

3. The "Perfect Sargi" for a Headache-Free Fast

Many women struggle with acidity or headaches by the evening. The secret lies in what you eat before the sun rises.

• Avoid: Extremely oily parathas or excessive tea/coffee, which cause dehydration.

• Include: * Slow-release Carbs: Oatmeal or stuffed multigrain rotis.

  • Hydrating Fruits: Watermelon, pomegranate, or citrus fruits.

  • Nuts: Soaked almonds and walnuts for sustained energy.

  • Curd: A small bowl of curd acts as a natural coolant.

4. Step-by-Step Puja Vidhi

1. Sankalpa: In the morning, take a bath and take water in your hand, pledging to complete the fast for the well-being of your spouse.

2. The Evening Gathering: Dress in traditional attire (Solah Shringar). Join other women to listen to the Karwa Chauth Vrat Katha.

3. The Plate (Thali) Rotation: Pass the Puja thalis in a circle while chanting: "Namah Shivayai Sharvanyai Saubhagyam Santatim Shubham. Prayachha Bhakti-yukthanam Narinam Haravallabhe."

4. The Moon Sighting: Use a sieve (channi) to view the moon, then offer water (Arghya). Look at your husband’s face through the sieve—a symbolic prayer that his life remains as radiant as the moon.

5. Modern Traditions: The "New-Age" Karwa Chauth

In 2026, Karwa Chauth is no longer just "for women."

• Fast Together: Many husbands now observe the fast alongside their wives to share the experience of sacrifice and devotion.

• Gifting Experiences: Moving beyond jewelry, couples are opting for "Post-Moonrise Dinners" or weekend getaways to celebrate the completion of the fast.

• Virtual Katha: For NRIs or those in nuclear families, "Zoom Kathas" have become a popular way to stay connected to their roots.

6. Troubleshooting the Moon (Cloud Cover)

If the moon is not visible due to clouds or rain on October 29:

• The Reflection Method: If the moon is up but hidden, you can break the fast by looking at the direction of the moonrise and visualizing its reflection in a pot of water.

• The Lord Shiva Connection: You can also worship the moon perched on Lord Shiva’s head (Chandra-Mauli) and break your fast with His blessing.

7. Essential Items Checklist

• Karwa: Clay pot with a nozzle.

• Sieve: For viewing the moon.

• Puja Thali: Decorated with lace or paint.

• Sargi: Prepared the night before.

• Mehendi: Applied 1-2 days in advance for the best color.