Karva Chauth is a long standing Indian tradition which has made a strong impression on us as a culture. It adds to the rich values of selflessness, social and moral ethics of India. In Hindu religion, the goal of life is self-realization or the attainment of God and fasting has been a much sought after path to attain this. All Hindu fasts have a deep spiritual and religious significance.

Karwa Chauth is a reflection of the rich Indian culture and value systems ingrained in the society. This is a ritual which is religiously followed by married women and more so those of north and north western India. This occasion is more important for all newly-wed couples. A newly married woman is made to feel very special by her relatives and immediate family members on this day. She is showered with blessings for a blissful married life and loads of Karva Chauth gifts.

Karva Chauth - 'Chauth' means 'fourth day' and 'Karwa' is an earther pot - symbolic of prosperity and well being. Chauth is the fourth night (day) after the Full Moon in Kartik month according to Hindu calendar. This is an occasion which pays tribute to the institution of marriage in India. Karva Chauth is predominantly observed in the north and north western parts of the country and is kept by married Hindu women.

Karwa Chauth is celebrated as a grand festival amongst the entire North Indian community settled either in India and other parts of the world. The festival falls on the Kartik ki Chauth which means the fourth day of the wanning moon or dark fortnight of Hindu month of Kartik. According to English calendar, the month corresponds to October or November. The festival is comes about nine days before the festival of Diwali.

In India, Karwa Chauth is one of the most popular festival specially for married women. Though the festival is much popular in Northern and Western Indian states like Punjab, U.P., Delhi, Haryana, Gujarat, etc. But now the festival is known across the country for its pious rituals and reason. Inspite of being the toughest fast, Karwa Chauth is always looked forward by all the married women who observe this fast as this gives them an opportunity to wish for the long life, well being and prosperity of her husband. For a newly wed couple, the festival is celebrated with immense pomp and enthusiasm.

In Indian tradition, a Hindu marriage introduces the rights and responsibilities of husband and wife towards each other. According to a traditional Indian concept, husband is the earner and protector of the family while the wife is responsible for proper care, nurturing, education and continuity of cultural heritage of the family for future generations. A Hindu women keep various fast to show her respect and affection for her husband and pray for a healthy and prosperous marital life. Some of the most important fasting days are as follows :