Karwa Chauth 2026: Know when Karwa Chauth falls, its significance, and the complete puja process
This year, Karwa Chauth 2026 will be observed on Thursday, 29 October.
As per the Hindu Panchang, this vrat (fast) falls on the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi tithi of Kartik month. Married women observe this waterless fast to pray for the long life and well-being of their husbands.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Day and Date | Thursday, 29 October 2026 |
| Hindu Tithi | Krishna Paksha Chaturthi, Kartik |
| Nakshatra | Mrigashira |
| Type of Fast | Nirjala (waterless, from sunrise to moonrise) |
| Puja Time | Pradosh Kaal, around sunset |
| Fast-Breaking Time | After moonrise, viewed through a sieve |
Why This Date?
Karwa Chauth falls every year on Kartik Krishna Chaturthi, which usually comes in October–November. Women begin the fast before sunrise with a meal called “sargi,” and break it only after sighting the moon in the evening. Since moonrise and puja timings can vary slightly by city, it’s best to check the exact local Panchang before the fast-breaking ritual.
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Shubh Muhurat and Moonrise Time
- Puja Muhurat (Pradosh Kaal): The period right after sunset is considered auspicious for setting up the puja altar (chowki) and worshipping Shiva-Parvati.
- Approximate Moonrise Time: Around 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM in major North Indian cities.
- Moonrise timing differs from city to city, so always check your local time before breaking the fast.
Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth symbolises marital love, devotion, and the bond between husband and wife. It is believed that observing this fast with proper rituals brings longevity to the husband and prosperity to married life. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across North India, especially in Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana.
Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step Process)
Sargi and Sankalp: Before sunrise, eat the sargi (fruits, dry fruits, sweets) given by the mother-in-law. After bathing and wearing red or yellow clothes, take a vow (sankalp) for the husband’s long life.
Setting up the Chowki: In the evening, at an auspicious time, spread a red cloth on a wooden platform and place idols or pictures of Karwa Mata, Shiva-Parvati, and Ganesha.
Worship of the Shiv Parivar: About an hour before moonrise, worship Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Nandi, Ganesha, and Kartikeya.
Karwa Chauth Katha: Listen to or read the Karwa Chauth vrat katha during the puja.
Moon Sighting and Argha: After moonrise, look at the moon through a sieve, then look at your husband’s face through the same sieve, and offer water (argha) to the moon.
Breaking the Fast: Break the fast by drinking water and eating sweets offered by the husband.
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Important Precautions
1. Pregnant and unwell women should consult a doctor before observing this waterless fast.
2. Since the fast is nirjala (without water), make sure to eat a nutritious sargi in the morning to avoid dehydration through the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Karwa Chauth 2026?
Karwa Chauth 2026 falls on Thursday, 29 October. The Hindu date is Krishna Paksha Chaturthi, Kartik month.
How is the Karwa Chauth date decided?
The fast is observed on the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi tithi of Kartik month, also known as “Karak Chaturthi.”
Does moonrise time vary by city?
Yes, moonrise time depends on sunrise, sunset, and time zone, and can vary from city to city. Always check the local Panchang for accuracy.
Can unmarried girls observe Karwa Chauth?
Yes, in many places unmarried girls also observe this fast for their future husbands, though it is primarily a festival observed by married women.
Nearby Festivals (Kartik 2026)
- Sunday, 25 October 2026 — Sharad Purnima
- Thursday, 29 October 2026 — Karwa Chauth
- Sunday, 1 November 2026 — Ahoi Ashtami
- Friday, November 6, 2026 — Dhanteras
- Sunday, November 8, 2026 — Diwali
- Tuesday, November 10, 2026 — Bhai Dooj
Note: The date and muhurat for Karwa Chauth are based on Panchang calculations. For the exact local timing, please consult your local Panchang or a priest.
