Fourth day of the waning moon

Karva is another word for 'pot' (a small earthen pot of water) and chauth means 'fourth' in Hindi (a reference to the fact that the festival falls on the fourth day of the dark-fortnight, or Krishna paksh, of the month of Kartik).

You don't have to be married or be Indian to observe this day. You may see an especially ominous moonrise on this day. You can fast for your partners in the name of the moon.

The Ritual

You start your day before sunrise and get ready for your fast. Most married women do not even drink water until moonrise. But you can fast until your body allows. Fasts are about cleansing your body - so it must feel discomfort. This discomfort is in the name of your lover in honor of the moon.

You go about your day until evening time. This is usually the most excruciating time. The moon will rise later than you want - even if you have the exact timing and location. The anticipation is just unbearable. You must feel this in the name of your partner in honor of the moon.

Story of Queen Veervati

During the day after your shower, recite this beautiful story to fortify the relationship between you and your partner. Recite this to yourself, with other fasters or with your children.

The Moonrise

Witness the moonrise with your partner. Carry water in a copper cup and pour it on the ground facing the moon as it rises. Pour some facing your partner as you both witness the moonrise.

Break your fast by eating something sweet. This is the ritual.

Wish everyone a strong love life and a partner who devotes themselves in this way.