On October 10, 2025, Indian communities across the United States celebrated Karwa Chauth, a deeply meaningful festival that honors the enduring bond between married couples. Observed primarily by married women, Karwa Chauth is marked by fasting from sunrise to moonrise, with the hope of ensuring the well-being and longevity of their husbands. This day-long ritual is one of the most important cultural occasions for many, serving as a moment to both honor tradition and strengthen familial ties.
The celebration of Karwa Chauth began early in the morning, with women gathering for the pre-dawn meal, known as sargi. Traditionally, this meal is prepared by mothers-in-law for their daughters-in-law, symbolizing blessings for long life and prosperity. The sargi includes foods that are nutritious and hydrating, providing the necessary energy for the long fast ahead. After this meal, women abstain from food and water throughout the day, a demonstration of devotion and love for their husbands.
As the day progresses, the women spend their time in prayer, reflection, and preparation for the evening rituals. In cities with large Indian populations such as New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, local events and gatherings bring the community together. These events often include traditional dances, music, and other forms of cultural expression. Women come together to support each other throughout the day, sharing stories, exchanging blessings, and celebrating the strong cultural bonds that unite them.
The evening marks the culmination of the festival, with women breaking their fast only after sighting the moon. They perform a ritualistic prayer, often in front of a Karwa (a clay pot), symbolizing protection and good fortune for their husbands. The moon, regarded as a sacred symbol of marital bliss, holds particular significance in the final stages of the celebration. Once the moon is visible, women offer their prayers, then sip water and enjoy a meal, marking the end of their fast.
For many, Karwa Chauth is a day of deep spiritual connection, and it also serves as a time to reinforce relationships within the family. The festival transcends geographical boundaries, with Indian communities in the U.S. continuing to uphold this tradition despite being far from home. It is an occasion for reflection on the values of love, devotion, and care that form the foundation of marriage, while also providing a joyful opportunity for families to come together and celebrate their shared heritage.
The observance of Karwa Chauth in the United States is a testament to the enduring nature of Indian traditions and their ability to adapt and flourish in a multicultural society. While the rituals may differ slightly depending on region or family custom, the essence of the festival remains the same—celebrating love, devotion, and the importance of family bonds. For many, Karwa Chauth is not just a day of fasting, but an opportunity to reconnect with one’s cultural roots and honor the enduring commitment of marriage.
