Karwa Chauth 2023: Significance, Rituals, and Timing

Karwa Chauth, celebrated on October 29, is a significant festival for married women who fast for their husbands' longevity and prosperity. Astrologer Pandit Manoj Kumar Dwivedi highlights that this year's observance coincides with the conjunction of the *Rohini* and *Mrigashira* *Nakshatras*, enhancing marital harmony. Newlywed women are encouraged to participate, as there are no prohibitions against first-time observers. The fast involves a waterless observance until moonrise, which is expected at 8:19 PM in Kanpur. This article delves into the rituals, astrological significance, and cultural importance of Karwa Chauth, making it a must-read for those looking to understand this cherished tradition.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 29, 2026, 06:27 IST

Karwa Chauth Celebration on October 29

The auspicious festival of Karwa Chauth is set to take place on Thursday, October 29. Astrologer Pandit Manoj Kumar Dwivedi has indicated that the *Chaturthi Tithi* (fourth lunar day) will be observed from sunrise until 10:09 PM. Additionally, this day will witness the conjunction of the *Rohini* and *Mrigashira* *Nakshatras* (constellations). He also reassured that there are no religious restrictions preventing women from observing the Karwa Chauth fast for the first time after marriage.

Observing the Karwa Chauth Fast

**Karwa Chauth Fast on October 29**

During Karwa Chauth, married women fast to pray for their husbands' health, prosperity, and a joyful married life. This year, the *Chaturthi Tithi* will last from the morning *Sankalp* (initial vow) through the day and into the night, making it appropriate to observe the fast and perform the *puja* (worship) on October 29, as per the *Shastras* (scriptures).

First-Time Observers Welcome

**Valid for First-Time Observers**

Contrary to some social media claims, Pandit Manoj Kumar Dwivedi has confirmed that newly married women can indeed observe the Karwa Chauth fast for the first time. He stated that religious texts like *Dharmasindhu* and *Nirnayasindhu* do not prohibit this practice, allowing newlyweds to participate fully in the fast.

Astrological Significance

**Conjunction of *Rohini* and *Mrigashira* *Nakshatras***

This year's Karwa Chauth coincides with the conjunction of the *Rohini* and *Mrigashira* *Nakshatras*. Astrologically, the Moon's exaltation in Taurus (*Vrishabha*) is believed to enhance love and harmony in marital relationships, strengthening the bond between spouses.

No Inauspicious Periods

**No *Shukrast Dosh* or *Bhadra Dosh***

This year's Karwa Chauth will not experience *Shukrast Dosh*, as Venus will rise on October 28. Additionally, there will be no 'Bhadra' (an inauspicious time) on October 29. The concept of 'Bhadra' is mainly relevant for specific rituals like 'Holika Dahan' and 'Raksha Bandhan'. During Karwa Chauth, women pray to deities such as Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Lord Kartikeya, Goddess Parvati, and the Moon God for a lasting marital bond, making the presence of 'Bhadra' irrelevant to their worship.

Moonrise Timing

Moonrise at 8:19 PM

This year, the moon is expected to rise in Kanpur at 8:19 PM. As per tradition, worship involves offering 'Arghya' (a ritual water offering) to the moon once it becomes visible. However, the exact timing may vary based on local weather conditions.

On Karwa Chauth, married women observe a 'Nirjala' (waterless) fast, refraining from food and water from sunrise until moonrise. The fast concludes after the evening worship and the offering of 'Arghya' to the moon.

Worship and Blessings

On this day, deities such as Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya, and the Moon are worshipped. By observing the Karwa Chauth fast, women seek blessings for a long life for their husbands and a harmonious domestic life.

Married women dedicate this fast to their husbands, praying for their health and longevity, with the hope of being united with the same partner in every lifetime.

Cultural Significance of Karwa Chauth

Karwa Chauth, also referred to as 'Karak Chaturthi', derives its name from 'Karwa', an earthen pot used to offer water—known as 'Arghya'—to the moon. This pot holds significant importance during the worship and is often donated to a Brahmin or deserving woman. The Moon is revered as a symbol of longevity, happiness, and peace, and its worship is believed to enhance marital bliss and contribute to a longer life for husbands.

Married women observe the Karwa Chauth fast with the aspiration of achieving lasting marital happiness and good fortune.