Karwa Chauth 2026: Key Dates and Rituals for the Festival

Karwa Chauth 2026 will be celebrated on October 29, with married women observing a waterless fast for their husbands' well-being. This article outlines the timings for the rituals, including the auspicious moments for worship and moonrise. Despite the coinciding *Bhadra* period, the rituals will proceed without hindrance. Learn about the significance of this festival, the prayers offered, and the traditional adornments worn by women during this special occasion.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 25, 2026, 16:09 IST

Karwa Chauth 2026 Observance

Karwa Chauth 2026: This year, the observance of Karwa Chauth will take place on Thursday, October 29. Traditionally, on the *Chaturthi* (fourth day) of the *Krishna Paksha* (waning moon phase) in the month of *Kartik*, married women engage in a *nirjala* (waterless) fast, praying for their husbands' long lives. Although this year's Karwa Chauth coincides with *Bhadra* (an inauspicious period), it will conclude before dawn. Thus, *Bhadra* will finish well ahead of the rituals associated with the fast, ensuring that worship remains unaffected. Let's explore the timing of *Bhadra*, the auspicious moments for worship (*muhurta*), and the moonrise schedule for Karwa Chauth.

Timing Details for Karwa Chauth

The *Chaturthi Tithi* in the month of *Kartik* begins at 01:06 AM on October 29 and concludes at 10:09 PM on the same day. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the *tithi* prevailing at sunrise) and the moon's visibility on *Chaturthi*, the fast will be observed on Thursday, October 29.

Duration of *Bhadra*: This period will commence at 5:31 AM on October 28 and end at 4:27 AM on October 29.

According to the *Panchang* (Hindu calendar), *Bhadra* will last from 5:31 AM on October 28 until 4:27 AM on October 29. This timing ensures that *Bhadra* will conclude well before sunrise on Karwa Chauth, allowing the evening rituals to proceed without any hindrance. Women can perform the worship of Karwa Mata, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha during the auspicious time (*shubh muhurta*). Additionally, the rituals conducted at moonrise will also be free from any *Bhadra*-related *dosha* (flaw). In Vedic astrology, ceremonial activities are typically avoided during *Bhadra*; however, if *Bhadra* is believed to be in *Swarga Loka* (heaven) or *Patala Loka* (the underworld), its negative influence does not extend to *Prithvi Loka* (Earth).

Karwa Chauth 2026 Puja Timing

Karwa Chauth Puja Timing (Muhurat)
Karwa Chauth Puja will take place from 5:38 PM to 6:56 PM. During this timeframe, women can prepare a *puja thali* (worship tray), offer prayers to Karwa Mata, and listen to the *vrat katha* (traditional story associated with the fast).

Moonrise Time: The moon is expected to rise between 8:12 PM and 8:17 PM on this day, with slight variations depending on the city—for example, it will rise around 7:42 PM in Kolkata and approximately 8:56 PM in Mumbai.

Importance of Karwa Chauth

Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is a significant festival in Hindu culture, celebrated by married women who pray for the longevity, health, and happiness of their husbands. On this day, women observe a *nirjala vrat* (fast without water) from sunrise until the moon rises. In the evening, they worship Karwa Mata, Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kartikeya. Following the worship, the *Karwa Chauth katha* is recited, and the fast is concluded after offering *arghya* (a ritual offering) to the moon. This fast symbolizes the love, trust, and commitment shared between spouses. Women also adorn themselves with the *solah shringar* (sixteen traditional adornments) and pray for their family's prosperity and joy.