Karwa Chauth is one of the most important festivals for all married women in Punjab. All the markets in Punjab get flooded with accessories and decorative items like bangles, sarees, embroidered suits, and more during this auspicious occasion. Apart from fasting, women also adorn their hands with mehndi (henna) designed by special artists. In some parts of Punjab, even the unmarried women fast in hopes of winning a loving husband in the future. Here are the rituals that Punjabis follow during Karwa Chauth. Read below:

Karwa Chauth – Rituals followed by Punjabis

Important Rituals

Sargi

Sargi is a meal prepared by the mother-in-law for her daughter-in-law, to be eaten before sunrise. Sargi includes sweets and other tasty delicacies. The mother-in-law blesses her daughter-in-law to be happy during the sargi. She also gives the daughter-in-law traditional jewellery and sarees.

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Baya

Baya is another ritual followed by Punjabis. In baya, the mother-in-law receives gifts from her daughter-in-law’s mother. Baya includes salted mathris, dry fruits, sarees, utensils, and more. Baya is not very commonly followed in other parts of India.

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The Pooja

Right the afternoon itself, women start their preparation for the pooja. The preparations are done with utmost devotion and zeal. Married ladies dress in heavy bridal dresses, ornaments, and cosmetics. After taking blessings from all the elder women in the family, the wife presents the baya to her mother-in-law.

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A glimpse of the moon

The story of Karwa Chauth is narrated by the elderly women of the family soon after the pooja is over. The wait for the moon to rise begins after sunset. As soon as the moon is sighted, prayers are offered. Women first observe the moon through a sieve and then break their fast. The first sip of water and the first bite of food are offered by the husband.

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Karwa Chauth's Evolution

The festival of Karwa Chauth has evolved immensely over the centuries. In earlier times, this festival was limited only to some states, but eventually, it became an important occasion for almost all states in India. Women now shop for ethnic clothes and jewellery and dress in the most exquisite way. With the change in times, even traditional delicacies are now been replaced by modern sweets and chocolates. In addition to that, Karwa Chauth is no more a one-sided affair. Now husbands also participate to express their love for their beloved wives.