Why do married women worship the moon—and not the Sun god—on Karwa Chauth?

Karwa Chauth Special: The festival of Karwa Chauth is celebrated every year on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Kartika. This year, the festival will be observed on Thursday, October 29th. On this auspicious day, married women observe a rigorous fast—abstaining even from water—with great enthusiasm, praying for the long life and good health of their husbands. On this day, special prayers are offered to the Moon God (Chandra Dev), along with Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Karwa Mata, and Lord Ganesha. Have you ever wondered why the Moon God is worshipped on Karwa Chauth, rather than the Sun God? Let us explore the mythological beliefs behind this...

According to astrology, the Moon is considered the embodiment of the mind, coolness, peace, and love. This is why, on Karwa Chauth, married women offer *arghya* (a ritual offering of water) to the Moon God—a symbol of coolness—to ensure the longevity of their husbands and to foster love and sweetness in their marital lives. The Moon is also associated with the eternal cycle of time and rebirth; hence, women worship the Moon God, viewing him as a symbol of *akhand saubhagya* (unbroken marital bliss and good fortune).

According to mythology, the Moon God loved Rohini—one of his wives—the most. On the day of Karwa Chauth, a special alignment involving the *Rohini Nakshatra* (constellation) often occurs, which further enhances the significance of the Moon. Worshipping the Moon God—the embodiment of coolness—is believed to bestow long life and good health upon one's husband, while bringing happiness and prosperity to the family.

In contrast, while the Sun God is regarded as a deity of immense radiance and intensity, the Moon is perceived as cool and serene. It is believed that the gentle, cooling rays of the Moon God help dispel discord in marital life, strengthen the bond of love between spouses, and bring stability to their lives. According to ancient legends, during the era of the Mahabharata, Draupadi observed the Karwa Chauth fast to ensure the protection of the Pandavas, with the guidance of Lord Krishna. 'Karva' refers to a small earthen pot, and 'Chauth' signifies the fourth day (Chaturthi Tithi) of the lunar fortnight. On this day, water is filled into these earthen pots (*karvas*) and offered as *arghya* (a ritual offering) to the Moon God, who is considered a symbol of coolness and serenity. This is why the festival is known as 'Karva Chauth'.

Karva Chauth Puja Timing (Muhurat) 2026 –

The auspicious timing (*muhurat*) for worship holds great significance on Karva Chauth. According to the *Panchang* (Hindu calendar), the auspicious time for worship this year will be from 5:38 PM to 6:56 PM. During this period, women worship Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and Karva Mata. It is customary to listen to the 'Karva Chauth Katha' (the traditional story of the festival) and pray for the happiness and prosperity of the family.

Auspicious Time for 'Sargi' –

On the day of Karva Chauth, sunrise is expected to occur around 6:30 AM. Therefore, the *sargi* (the pre-dawn meal) should be consumed before sunrise. In many families, it is customary to partake in the *sargi* between 3:30 AM and 5:30 AM. However, the timing and the specific items included in the *sargi* may vary according to individual family traditions.

Moonrise Timing on Karva Chauth –

On Karva Chauth, women eagerly await the sighting of the moon. According to the *Panchang*, the estimated time for moonrise on October 29th is 8:17 PM. Please note that the actual time of moonrise may vary depending on the city and local conditions. After sighting the moon, women offer *arghya* to it and pray for the long life of their husbands. Following this, they break their fast by consuming water offered by their husbands.

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