New Delhi: Karwa Chauth, also called Karak Chaturthi, is one of the most crucial festivals for married women and to-be-brides in India. On this day, they
observe a rigorous ‘nirjala vrat’ or a day-long fast without water after sunrise for the health and longevity of their husbands or future life partners. Women break their fast by looking at the moon and their husbands’ faces through a sieve. Observed on the fourth lunar day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Kartik, Karwa Chauth 2026 falls on Thursday, October 29.
Karwa Chauth is filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness for first-time fasters. This can lead to committing mistakes unknowingly by many women. It can make the fast stressful or even unhealthy unnecessarily. Mistakes like ignoring pre-dawn meals can leave you feeling drained even before the prayer begins. To ensure balanced energy levels and a smoother fasting experience for new brides and first-timers, here are the five common mistakes to be avoided this Karwa Chauth 2026.
Karwa Chauth 2026 rituals and guide
1. Sargi
The fast begins with a pre-dawn meal known as Sargi. To be prepared by the mother-in-law, it includes fruits, nuts and sweets, which ensure energy throughout the day. It is taken before the sun rises, and after this, the fast begins.
2. Day-long fast
Women observe a rigorous fast from sunrise to moonrise. During this time period, they avoid taking food and water. The spiritual aspect is more important than the physical aspect of fasting, as it strengthens the bond between husband and wife.
3. Prayer and evening ritual
In the evening, during the prayer time, women sit together to hear the Karwa Chauth Katha or a traditional story of devotion. After the moon rises, offerings are made to the Moon God, and the fast is broken by drinking water offered by the husband.
Common mistakes to avoid by first-time fasters
Karwa Chauth fast must be observed in the right way, with full reverence. So, as a first-time faster, avoid these mistakes and keep in mind the following things to ensure that it purifies your body as well as your mind.
1. Wake up for Sargi
Don’t miss the Sargi meal as it can weaken your body and your spiritual aspirations throughout the day. Wake up before sunrise, and taking Sargi is mandatory, as this meal is not only a source of energy but a symbol of your connection with your in-laws. Peacefully eating Sargi prepares your mind for the fast ahead.
2. Avoid engaging in gossip
To maintain a pure heart and mind, women who are observing the fast must avoid unnecessary gossip, negative thoughts, or idle talk during the day. Prayers and gratitude for your husband’s well-being must be the top priority.
3. Do not skip prayer
Reciting the Karwa Chauth katha or devotional story with full attention is an important aspect during the evening prayer. Skipping this can disrupt the sanctity of the fasting and alignment with the divine.
4. Wait patiently for moonrise
Patience is the key while waiting for the moonrise, even if it occurs late. Avoid this common mistake of breaking the fast before seeing the moon. Offering arghya or water to the Moon God is a pivotal part of the fast.
5. Focus on husband’s role
Traditionally, the fast must be broken by the water offered by the husband, as this act symbolises his care and the completion of the wife’s devotion. So, this common mistake should not be overlooked.
6. Avoid overeating
After breaking the fast, a few women are inclined towards overeating. But this act can harm your health. To avoid such a situation, first drink water and take something light, such as fruits or a mini meal.
7. Do not ignore spiritual aspect
During Karwa Chauth, never ignore the spiritual aspect of the fasting. Keep yourself engaged in meditating, praying, and reflecting on the deeper significance of the fast rather than passing the time by doing mundane activities.
Transform your first-time Karwa Chauth celebration into a day full of devotion and bonding while also taking care of health and well-being by avoiding these common mistakes. Only then can first-time fasters experience the occasion in its true spirit.
