Karwa Chauth is a cherished festival among married women in the Indian community, marked by fasting, prayer, and rituals to pray for the long life and prosperity of their husbands. Even in a vibrant city like London, the festival holds deep cultural significance, with women embracing both traditional customs and modern celebrations. From early morning fasting to evening puja and waiting for the moonrise, Karwa Chauth in London beautifully blends heritage with the contemporary lifestyle, making it a unique experience for the Indian diaspora.
This year, Karwa Chauth will be celebrated on Sunday, October 20, 2024, and many in London are gearing up for this important festival. With its rich traditions and rituals, Karwa Chauth is widely celebrated by Indian women across the globe, including those in London, who keep the spirit of this festival alive.
Puja Muhurat: 05:56 PM to 07:18 PM
Fasting Time: 07:34 AM to 07:06 PM (11 hours and 32 minutes)
Moonrise: 07:06 PM
One of the highlights of Karwa Chauth is dressing up in traditional attire. In London, Indian women often combine elements of both traditional and modern fashion. While red and vibrant saris are a classic choice, many opt for contemporary fusion styles, incorporating lehengas or designer kurtis paired with statement jewelry.
Shopping hubs like Southall, Wembley, and online boutiques offer beautiful Karwa Chauth attire, where one can find everything from heavily embroidered saris to chic, minimalistic outfits. Additionally, several local salons and beauty centers offer mehendi (henna) application services during the days leading up to Karwa Chauth. Having elaborate mehendi designs applied is an important part of the celebration, symbolizing prosperity and joy.
For those looking to celebrate Karwa Chauth in a relaxed yet festive setting, London Street Café is hosting a special Karwa Chauth event. While keeping the day’s customs in mind, the café is offering themed décor, special Karwa Chauth drinks, and a cozy space where women can gather before or after their puja. It’s the perfect spot for a quick meetup with friends or family to unwind after a long day of fasting.
Join a Community Puja: Several temples and Indian community centers in London organize group pujas, where women come together to perform the rituals.
"Prepare Ahead: Get all your Karwa Chauth essentials like the Karwa, sieve, mehendi, and thali from Indian stores across London or online."
Monitor Moonrise Time: Since the moonrise plays a significant role in breaking the fast, be sure to check local times or use apps to know the exact moment.
Ahoi Ashtami, a revered festival for mothers, will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. This festival holds special significance for women who fast for the health and wellbeing of their children. Traditionally observed for sons, the modern-day observance includes prayers for the wellbeing of both sons and daughters. The fast is broken during twilight after sighting the stars in the sky, which will occur at 18:24 in London on this day. For those who follow the custom of breaking the fast after moonrise, the moon will rise at 22:14 on Ahoi Ashtami.
Basant Panchami, also known as Vasant Panchami, will be celebrated on Sunday, 2nd February 2025. This joyous festival marks the beginning of spring and is an important occasion for Hindus in the UK and worldwide. It is particularly dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, and the arts. Basant Panchami holds special significance for the Indian diaspora in the UK, where temples and cultural organisations commemorate it with devotion and community activities.
Bhai Dooj, celebrated on 3rd November 2024, marks the final day of the five-day Diwali festival. This special occasion honours the unique bond between brothers and sisters, emphasising love, protection, and familial ties. The auspicious Bhai Dooj Muhurat in UK is from 12:41 PM to 2:35 PM, a time considered ideal for performing the rituals. Many siblings take this opportunity to express their affection through thoughtful gestures, gifts, and sweets, reinforcing the importance of their relationship.
Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God (Surya Dev), will be celebrated in 2024 on Thursday, 7th November. This four-day festival is especially popular among people from Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, and has found a home within the Hindu community in the UK. Celebrating Chhath Puja in the UK is a beautiful way for devotees to stay connected with their roots while honouring the Sun God for prosperity, well-being, and happiness.
Celebrate Children’s Day 2024 in the UK on 14th November. Discover fun activities, events, and how to promote child rights and well-being on this special day.
Choti Diwali, also known as Naraka Chaturdashi, falls on 31 October 2024 and marks the second day of the five-day Diwali festival. This auspicious day commemorates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. While the grand celebrations of Diwali take place the following day, Choti Diwali sets the stage for festive preparations and community spirit.
Dhanteras 2024 will be celebrated on October 29 in the UK. The auspicious time for Dhanteras puja is from 7:04 PM to 8:27 PM. Discover the significance, traditions, and events happening in London to celebrate this festive occasion.
Discover unique Diwali gift ideas for 2024 in the UK! From luxury gift hampers to traditional sweets and vegan options, find the perfect gifts to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Celebrate Diwali with joy and warmth this November 1st!
Diwali 2024 in the UK falls on Sunday, October 31st, with Lakshmi Puja scheduled between 17:04 and 18:42. Discover how to celebrate the Festival of Lights in London!
Get ready for an exciting celebration as Diwali on the Square returns to Trafalgar Square on Sunday, October 27, 2024. This vibrant event kicks off the countdown to Diwali, which falls on October 31, 2024, and promises an array of music, dance, workshops, and cultural activities that reflect the diversity of London’s Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities.