Karva Chauth, a celebration that brings the entire family together, says Rohit of Al Adil Trdg Co

Karva Chauth is, indeed, a significant festival for married women in our family. Women fast from sunrise to moonrise for the long life and well-being of their husbands. While traditionally only women fast, men in our family actively participate in supporting their wives during the day, says Rohit Dhananjay Datar, Director, Al Adil Trading Co.

'Karva Chauth is not a community festival in the same way as some other Indian festivals, but it’s a time when women come together to support each other.

'That said, Karva Chauth brings a sense of togetherness, not only among women but the entire family. In the evening, families gather to see the moon together, and there’s a communal feeling of celebration and togetherness.

'Preparations for Karva Chauth commence several days before the festival. Women shop for new clothes and jewellery, and there’s a sense of excitement in the air. Special henna (mehendi) designs are applied on their hands, and they receive gifts from their husbands. The day of fasting is spent in prayer, storytelling, and bonding with other women in the family.

'A delicious sargi meal is prepared before dawn.

'In the evening, we gather in our garden or in our pooja room, where the women perform various rituals and pujas that mark this festival. Husbands are there to support and share in the experience, making it a truly heartwarming celebration.

'The sighting of the moon is met with excitement and joy as the fast is ended together.

'Karva Chauth is a time when family bonds are strengthened as women receive love and support from their husbands and, because of the values espoused to us, the sense of unity and the emotional connection is strengthened within our family.

'The delicacies prepared at home for the evening meal vary, but they are always rich and nutritious to end the fast.

'Some popular dishes that are sure to feature on the day include Paneer Tikka, and various types of sweets such as Kheer and Gulab Jamun. Fruits also find pride of place on the dining table.

One of my favourite memories of Karva Chauth is the sight of all the women in our family dressed in vibrant traditional attire, holding their Karva (earthen pots) with devotion, and the joyous moment when they finally end their fast after spotting the moon.'