Guide

Karwa Chauth 2026 Puja Vidhi: Sargi, Fasting Rules, Katha and Moonrise

Karwa Chauth falls on Thursday 29 October 2026. Married women (and some others) fast from before sunrise until the moon is seen, and pray for the well-being of their spouse. This guide covers the day in order: sargi, the fast, the evening puja, the katha and how to break the fast. The moonrise time is different in every city, so check your own.

Before sunrise: sargi

Sargi is the pre-dawn meal that begins the fast. Traditionally it is prepared and sent by the mother-in-law. It usually includes fruit, dry fruits, sweets, coconut water and something light such as parathas or sevaiyan. Eat before sunrise, drink enough water, and avoid very salty or oily food so the day is easier.

During the day: the fast

Most observers keep a nirjala fast, with no food or water, until moonrise. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or are elderly, many families and priests accept water, fruit or milk, and doctors advise it. The fast is an act of devotion, not an endurance test, so follow what is safe for you.

Keep the day calm, dress in traditional or festive clothes, apply mehndi and solah shringar if you wish, and avoid arguments.

Evening puja

Set up a small puja with an image or clay figures of Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha and Kartikeya, a karwa (clay pot) with water, a lamp, roli, rice, flowers, sweets and the puja thali. Women sit together and pass the thali in a circle while the Karwa Chauth katha is read. The katha tells the story of Queen Veeravati, and different regions have their own versions.

Moonrise and breaking the fast

When the moon is visible, look at it through a sieve or a lamp, offer water (arghya), and then look at your spouse. The spouse gives the first sip of water and the first bite of food. Use the moonrise time for your city, wait until the moon is actually visible, and allow a few minutes either way because cloud and buildings can delay sighting.

What to eat when you break the fast

Start with water, then something light: fruit, dates, milk or a small sweet, before a full meal. Avoid a heavy meal straight away.

Common questions on the rules

Is it only for married women? Traditionally yes, but unmarried women and men also keep the fast in some families. Can I brush my teeth? Yes, and many people also drink water in a way their family accepts; follow your family custom. Can I skip if I feel unwell? Yes. Health comes first, and many priests say the intention matters more than the rules.

Frequently asked questions

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