Married women across India observe Karwa Chauth with great devotion, fasting from sunrise until they can sight the moon. This festival, celebrated on the fourth day of the waning moon during the Hindu month of Kartik, is not just a ritual but an occasion filled with deep cultural significance. Karwa Chauth is believed to ensure the longevity and well-being of a woman’s husband, while also symbolizing the strength of marital bonds.
In Patna, the capital of Bihar, the moonrise time for Karwa Chauth 2025 is scheduled for 7:48 pm. This marks the end of the fast for thousands of women in the city, who eagerly await the moon’s appearance to break their fast and offer prayers. However, the moonrise time varies from city to city across India, and knowing the exact time helps the fasting women prepare for the moment they can complete their ritual.
Karwa Chauth: A Day of Fasting and Prayers
The essence of Karwa Chauth lies in fasting and praying for the well-being of husbands. Women begin their fast at dawn, refraining from consuming food and water. They observe the fast without any food intake, focusing instead on prayers, rituals, and maintaining their resolve until the sighting of the moon. The fast is broken after performing a series of rituals that involve viewing the moon, followed by offering prayers while looking through a sieve.
It is considered an auspicious occasion for married women to come together and celebrate the strength of their relationships. Traditionally, the day is spent in preparation, where women dress in their finest clothes, often opting for red or orange attire, and apply henna to their hands. This festive atmosphere is shared with friends and family, as women gather to share stories and support each other through the fast.
The Importance of Moonrise in Karwa Chauth
The moonrise holds immense significance for Karwa Chauth. The appearance of the moon marks the end of the fast and signifies the moment when women can break their fast. The moonrise time differs from one city to another, depending on geographical location. Therefore, women in various regions eagerly anticipate the moon’s arrival to conclude their day-long fasting rituals.
In some cities, the moon rises earlier, while in others, it may take longer for the moon to become visible. This variation in moonrise times is influenced by factors like location, time zone, and altitude. Therefore, each city has its unique time when the women can break their fast.
Moonrise Times for Karwa Chauth 2025 in Major Cities
As Karwa Chauth is celebrated across India, here are the moonrise times for various major cities, marking the culmination of a day-long fast:
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Patna: 7:48 pm
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Delhi: 8:13 pm
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Noida: 8:12 pm
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Gurugram: 8:14 pm
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Shimla: 8:06 pm
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Dehradun: 8:05 pm
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Chandigarh: 8:09 pm
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Jaipur: 8:23 pm
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Lucknow: 8:02 pm
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Kanpur: 8:06 pm
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Prayagraj: 8:02 pm
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Gorakhpur: 7:52 pm
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Haridwar: 8:05 pm
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Jammu: 8:11 pm
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Bhubaneswar: 7:58 pm
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Raipur: 8:01 pm
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Indore: 8:34 pm
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Bhopal: 8:26 pm
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Ahmedabad: 8:47 pm
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Gandhinagar: 8:46 pm
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Mumbai: 8:55 pm
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Chennai: 8:38 pm
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Kolkata: 7:42 pm
As seen from the above timings, cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad will witness the moonrise later, around 8:47 pm and 8:55 pm, respectively. On the other hand, cities such as Patna and Gorakhpur will see the moonrise earlier, at 7:48 pm and 7:52 pm. These differences in moonrise times contribute to the diversity of experiences for women across India during Karwa Chauth.
The Role of Community and Tradition in Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth is not only a religious observance but also an opportunity for women to connect with each other, share experiences, and celebrate tradition. The festival is a time when families come together, and communities bond over the common thread of love, devotion, and the hope for a prosperous married life. Women exchange stories, prayers, and sometimes even gifts, enhancing the spirit of camaraderie.
As women wait for the moon to rise, the atmosphere in homes across India is filled with anticipation. Many families gather around, with husbands often participating by offering water and food to their wives once the fast is completed. The sighting of the moon is a moment of great relief, signaling the end of the fast and the completion of a deeply meaningful spiritual practice.
The Cultural Significance of Karwa Chauth
Karwa Chauth has been a significant part of Indian culture for centuries, transcending regional and linguistic boundaries. Its cultural relevance extends beyond the religious realm, embodying the values of marital fidelity, respect, and devotion. Although originally observed in North India, over time, Karwa Chauth has gained popularity in other parts of the country, becoming a pan-India festival.
The fast symbolizes a woman’s devotion to her husband, and it is seen as a selfless act that strengthens the bond between spouses. The festival has also evolved with modern times, with women from various parts of the world observing it, even outside of India. Social media platforms now serve as an extension of the festival, where women share photos of their outfits, henna, and festive moments with others across the globe.
The Future of Karwa Chauth Celebrations
As India becomes more connected and culturally diverse, the celebrations of Karwa Chauth are likely to continue evolving. The festival may see more global recognition, with Indian communities worldwide participating in the fasting and ritual observance. Furthermore, as the younger generation becomes more active in preserving traditions, Karwa Chauth will likely remain a vital cultural event for years to come.
While the festival is rooted in tradition, it is also a reflection of how rituals can adapt and thrive in modern times. From family gatherings to digital celebrations, Karwa Chauth’s essence remains unchanged—devotion, love, and a hope for a prosperous life with one’s partner.
Karwa Chauth 2025 is set to be a day of fasting, prayers, and community bonding for married women across India. As women eagerly await the moonrise in various cities, the festival continues to be a symbol of love, sacrifice, and marital strength. With moonrise timings varying from city to city, each location offers a unique experience, adding to the richness and diversity of this age-old tradition. Whether it’s in Patna, Mumbai, or Chennai, the essence of Karwa Chauth remains the same—a celebration of marital devotion and the prayer for the well-being of one’s spouse.
