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.
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In 2024, Pausha Amavasya will be observed on Monday, 30th December, marking the new moon day in the Pausha month of the Hindu calendar. The Amavasya Tithi begins at 22:31 on 29th December 2024 and ends at 22:26 on 30th December 2024. This day is significant in Hindu tradition, particularly for performing rituals related to Shraddha, worshipping ancestors, and offering prayers for their peace and blessings. Many devotees also observe Kalasarpa Dosha puja on this day to eliminate any doshas related to the placement of planets in their horoscope.
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Bhai Dooj 2025 will be observed on Thursday, October 23, 2025 in London, United Kingdom. This significant festival, also known as Yama Dwitiya, celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. Bhai Dooj date and time 2025 will fall within the Dwitiya Tithi, which begins at 15:46 on October 22, 2025, and ends at 18:16 on October 23, 2025 (London time). Sisters perform the Tika ceremony, praying for their brothers' long and happy lives, while brothers reciprocate by gifting presents to their sisters. This festival is widely celebrated across India and has various regional names, including Bhau Beej, Bhatra Dwitiya, and Bhai Dwitiya.
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti is on March 17, 2025 (Monday), celebrated in London to honor the 395th birth anniversary of the great Maratha warrior and king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This day commemorates his remarkable legacy of bravery, leadership, and his role in establishing the Maratha Empire. The day marks the Tritiya Tithi of the Phalguna month according to the Hindu calendar, and celebrations include prayers, processions, and various cultural events to pay tribute to his valor and contributions.