Karva Chauth is a significant festival celebrated by married women in India, who fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. This ritual of devotion is not only a reflection of love but also deeply rooted in ancient traditions and stories passed down through generations.
As families gather to observe the festival, storytelling becomes an integral part of the celebration, with several traditional tales adding to the emotional and cultural depth of the occasion. Here are some of the most popular stories associated with Karva Chauth that are read and cherished during the festival.
1. The Legend of Queen Veeravati
One of the most well-known legends of Karva Chauth is the story of Queen Veeravati. According to the tale, Veeravati was the only sister of seven loving brothers. After her marriage, she observed her first Karva Chauth at her parents’ house.
Unable to bear the sight of her sister suffering from hunger and thirst, her brothers devised a plan. They tricked her into believing that the moon had risen by placing a mirror on a tree, reflecting the light.
Believing it to be moonlight, Veeravati broke her fast. However, as soon as she ate, she received the news that her husband had fallen ill.
In deep sorrow, Veeravati prayed to Goddess Parvati, who blessed her and restored her husband’s health. This story emphasizes the importance of devotion and faith in the observance of the Karva Chauth fast.
(Also Read: Karwa Chauth 2024 Moonrise Time: City-wise Moonrise Timings And Festival Rituals)
2. The Story of Savitri and Satyavan
The tale of Savitri and Satyavan is another traditional story linked to Karva Chauth. According to the legend, Savitri was a devoted wife whose husband, Satyavan, was fated to die within a year of their marriage.
When Yama, the God of Death, came to take Satyavan’s soul, Savitri pleaded with him to spare her husband’s life. Her unwavering devotion moved Yama, and he granted her a boon, allowing her to ask for anything except her husband’s life.
Savitri, in her wisdom, requested to be blessed with children, which would only be possible if her husband lived. Impressed by her intelligence and loyalty, Yama returned Satyavan’s life. This story highlights the power of a wife’s devotion and strength, making it a significant tale to recount during Karva Chauth.
3. The Story of Karva
The festival of Karva Chauth is also believed to derive its name from the story of Karva, a woman known for her unwavering love and dedication toward her husband. According to the legend, Karva’s husband was once caught by a crocodile while bathing in a river.
She tied the crocodile with a cotton yarn and prayed to Yama, the God of Death, to save her husband. Impressed by her devotion, Yama punished the crocodile and granted her husband a long life. This tale underscores the power of devotion and the strength of love between husband and wife.
4. The Story of Draupadi and Arjuna
Another popular story associated with Karva Chauth comes from the epic Mahabharata. It is said that Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, once observed a Karva Chauth fast for the safety and victory of her husband, Arjuna, who was facing danger during his exile.
When Draupadi sought help from Lord Krishna, he advised her to observe the fast and worship the moon, which she did. Following this, Arjuna was able to return safely.
This story adds a spiritual dimension to the festival, reinforcing the belief that the fast can protect and bless husbands with long life and success.
5. The Legend of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva
Another story that is often recited during Karva Chauth is that of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. According to the tale, Goddess Parvati observed a strict fast and underwent several penances to win the love and approval of Lord Shiva for marriage.
Her dedication and devotion moved Shiva, who accepted. This story symbolizes the power of devotion and is often narrated during the evening prayers of Karva Chauth, reinforcing the idea of love, sacrifice, and divine blessings.
Karva Chauth is not just about fasting; it is a celebration of love, faith, and the bond between husband and wife. The traditional stories passed down through generations during this festival add a deeper spiritual and emotional layer to the rituals.
As women gather for the evening Puja, these tales of devotion, sacrifice, and loyalty become an essential part of the celebration, inspiring and uplifting those who hear them. In 2024, as families come together to observe Karva Chauth, these timeless stories will continue to remind us of the enduring values of love and dedication.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)