On the auspicious occasion of Karwa Chauth (October 15 '2011) the Moon rise is expected around 7:41 in Jammu.
Karwa Chauth is a traditional Hindu festival for married women. Married women fast one whole day without food or water for the long life of their husbands, the ritual signifies extreme affection and love for the husband.
Karwa means clay pot and chauth means fourth night after the full moon.It has great social and cultural significance. Women start their fast by consuming food called sergi sent or given by her mother-in-law before the dawn. They then wait until the following night's moonrise to begin the fast breaking ceremonies.
In the evening women dress in their best clothing, and adorn themselves with jewellery and henna. The Karwa with specially prepared food and jewellery is offered to the God. Karwas are also exchanged with other women after that. Further practices involve telling and listening to stories regarding origin of Karwa Chauth.
The fast breaking ceremony involves looking at the moon through a sieve, and then looking at her husband's face. They often close their eyes in the process and do not see anyone but their husbands just after seeing the moon. |
