

On October 20, 2024, the festival of Karwa Chauth will be celebrated with great fervor across India. This festival marks the unwavering love and sacrifice between husband and wife. The belief is that this fast, dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Karwa Mata, ensures the safety and longevity of marriage. The tradition of this fast originated with the devotion of Savitri and is also associated with Goddess Parvati and Draupadi. This article also includes the moonrise time for various cities and a disclaimer regarding beliefs and individual experiences.
Background
Karwa Chauth is an annual Hindu festival celebrated by married women in India on the fourth day after the full moon in the month of Kartika, usually in October or November. It is a day of fasting and prayer, in which women seek blessings for the well-being, safety, and longevity of their husbands.
The origins of Karwa Chauth are traced to the ancient Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. According to legend, Savitri, a devoted wife, fasted and prayed to Lord Yama, the god of death, to save her husband Satyavan from dying. Her unwavering faith and love moved Yama, who agreed to spare Satyavan's life.
Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth holds immense significance in Hindu society and is seen as a testament to the unbreakable bond between a husband and wife. It is believed that a woman's fast and devotion on this day ensure her husband's safety, good health, and long life.
Rituals of Karwa Chauth
The rituals of Karwa Chauth vary slightly from region to region, but generally include the following:
Top 5 FAQs Related to Karwa Chauth
Q1: When is Karwa Chauth 2024? A: October 20, 2024
Q2: What is the significance of the moonrise during Karwa Chauth? A: The moonrise marks the end of the fast and is considered an auspicious time to offer prayers to Lord Ganesha and Karwa Mata.
Q3: Can unmarried women observe Karwa Chauth? A: No, Karwa Chauth is primarily observed by married Hindu women.
Q4: Is it necessary to fast for the entire day? A: Yes, the traditional observance of Karwa Chauth requires a complete fast from sunrise to moonrise.
Q5: What are some tips for observing Karwa Chauth safely? A: Women with any health conditions should consult their doctor before fasting. Stay hydrated by sipping water before sunrise and after the fast is broken. Avoid strenuous activities during the fast.

A private bus carrying 41 passengers caught fire after colliding with a motorcycle on National Highway 44 in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the motorcycle's fuel tank ruptured and leaked fuel, causing the fire. The bus was reported to have multiple challans for traffic violations, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.

The Madhya Pradesh Police has launched a new campaign called 'Nashe Se Doori Hai Zaroori' to create awareness among the youth about the dangers of drugs and addiction. The campaign, which is being led by Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, aims to highlight the importance of keeping the young generation drug-free in order to safeguard the country's future. Tripathi has urged everyone to understand their responsibility in creating a better India and to stay away from the path of destruction that substance abuse can lead to.

Studies have shown that surrounding yourself with greenery has significant benefits for mental health, including lower stress levels and improved mood. Engaging with indoor plants has been linked to reduced blood pressure and improved relaxation. A 2023 study also revealed that caring for indoor plants can increase mental well-being and emotional balance. Discover the top 12 indoor plants that can improve your health, happiness, and indoor air quality.

Devotees from all over India flocked to Vishram Ghat in Mathura to participate in the annual Bhai Dooj festival, a celebration of the special bond between brothers and sisters. The ancient Yamraj Temple was the center of the festivities as devotees took a dip in the holy Yamuna River and performed rituals to honor Yamraj and Goddess Yamuna. The festival is believed to bring blessings of long life, happiness, and prosperity to siblings and is a symbol of love and protection in Hindu mythology.

On the auspicious occasion of Bhai Dooj, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Health Minister JP Nadda extended their heartfelt wishes to the nation, celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. This festival, also known as Bhaiya Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhau Beej, is widely celebrated across India with love and festivity, symbolizing the unbreakable affection and dedication between siblings. The day holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is associated with the liberation of all living beings from suffering and the bestowal of happiness.

On Wednesday, April 30, Hindus will celebrate the auspicious festival of Akshay Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej. This day is believed to bring luck and success, and is considered free from all malefic effects. People often buy gold on this day as it is believed to bring prosperity and wealth in the future. Akshay Tritiya is also considered to be ruled by Lord Vishnu, who is a revered deity in Hinduism. The best time to buy gold on this day is between 06:11 AM and 02:12 PM, according to Drik Panchang.

As Diwali comes to a close, the festival of Bhai Dooj celebrates the unconditional love and bond between brothers and sisters with various names across India. This year, Bhai Dooj falls on October 23, with the tilak ceremony auspicious time from 1:14 PM to 3:29 PM. It is a time to cherish the cherished memories and create stronger relationships between siblings. Share heartfelt wishes and blessings on this day to celebrate the beautiful bond of love and togetherness.

Marking a historic moment, President Droupadi Murmu offered prayers at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, becoming the first serving state head to do so. She climbed the 18 sacred steps to reach the shrine and offered darshan to Lord Ayyappa, carrying the sacred bundle on her head. This visit holds symbolic significance as the president represents both Vaishnavism and Shaivism, making it a moment of unity in Hinduism.

As Diwali celebrations come to an end, the day after is marked by the auspicious festival of Govardhan Puja or Annakut. In 2025, this festival falls on Wednesday, 22 October, and is a reminder to express gratitude towards nature and the environment. Devotees prepare special offerings and decorate their homes with flowers and diyas, honoring Lord Krishna and the bounty of nature. While the article provides general guidance, it also urges readers to consult experts before implementing any beliefs or practices discussed.

The Udupi Catholic diocese has extended warm Diwali greetings, citing the festival as a symbol of moving from darkness to light, falsehood to truth, and death to new life. The diocese emphasizes India's diversity and unity in celebrating different festivals together. Sharing a symbolic story, the diocese urges people to be the candle of hope that relights peace, faith, and love in the world. The message concludes with a call to action to be the light that builds bridges of love, faith, and compassion.