Karwa Chauth, a significant Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in North India, involves married women observing a day-long fast for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. The fast traditionally concludes after sighting the moon and offering prayers. The timing of the moonrise is crucial as it dictates when the fast can be broken. This year, Karwa Chauth falls on a specific lunar date, the Chaturthi Tithi of Kartik Krishna Paksha. Women traditionally dress in fine attire, often referred to as ‘solah shrigaar,’ and prepare for moon worship. The anticipation for the moon’s appearance is a key element of the festival, with some regions experiencing an earlier moonrise than others.
The rituals associated with Karwa Chauth hold deep cultural and religious significance. The fast is believed to strengthen the marital bond and bring prosperity to the household. Goddess Parvati, along with Lord Shiva and Kartikeya, are worshipped during the festival. The observance of Karwa Chauth is considered a testament to a wife’s devotion and her prayers for her husband’s long life.
Moonrise timings vary across different cities in India. In Mumbai, the moon is expected to rise at 08:47 pm. Other major cities also have specific moonrise times, such as Delhi at 08:08 pm, Noida at 08:07 pm, and Agra at 08:07 pm. Cities further east, like Patna, have an earlier moonrise at 07:42 pm, reflecting the earth’s rotation. Knowing the precise moonrise time for your location is essential for observing the Karwa Chauth rituals correctly.
The variations in moonrise times across India are due to geographical locations and the earth’s curvature. Cities located further east will generally experience an earlier moonrise compared to those in the west. This difference can range from a few minutes to a significant portion of an hour. Understanding these variations is crucial for those observing the Karwa Chauth fast, ensuring they break their fast at the appropriate time according to their location.
