Fitness Enthusiast Aarti Pandey Shares Why She Feels Karva Chauth Is Still Significant

Pune, November 4, 2020: Having second thoughts about Karva Chauth fasting? Fitness enthusiast Aarti Pandey shares why according to her, observing Karva Chauth and fasting holds an important place even today, starting with building camaraderie.

Do you have Karva Chauth fast?

Yes, I am fasting. And unapologetic about it. Not that I am a believer in moon or stars charting the course of our lives. I am neither that evolved to understand the mysteries of nature nor naive enough to blindly follow the DDLJ tradition. 

Then why?

Simply because this one person in my life means more than anyone else. This is my way of thanking heavens for this boon. 

Fasting?

I value this relationship higher than the basic need for food and water. It reminds us that this partnership is above everything else. This is not going to prove my love for my husband but it does give me the joy of celebrating his presence in my life.

Dressing up?

Once a year my forgotten jewellery like pajeb & bicchue come out. Mangalsutra is worn with devotion and pride. Mehendi, sindoor, bangles et al came in my life with him and hence are invaluable. All these are an integral part of our rich tradition and culture.

Shastras talk about solah singar (16 adornments) for a bride. This day, every woman can be a bride again. Married life, reboots itself!

Katha?

The real-life and legend mix like no other. Age-old innocence is recited and you bow your head to tradition rather than logic. We all know that logic works but not always…A mystery, a scope for some miracle, a little sweetness…can not hurt.

Does my husband do the same thing for me? No. !!!

And I don’t mind. He has tried to dissuade me. But, This is my day. I need pampering. 

Mother-in-law gift?

This is one day when I thank my mother-in-law from bottom of my heart for her son. I have one now and I know it is not an easy task. I hope, my son grows up like his father!

Cribbing about thirst & hunger?

What fun! Try doing it. Very cathartic.

Waiting for the moon?

One day in the year when We actually, observe and abide by nature! 

One day, when, in our everyday city life. We consciously take out time to admire its beauty. Now, I understand the phrase, Eid ka Chaand and how the moon can epitomise beauty, like no other!!

So, best wishes for Karva Chauth to all of you. May your married life nourish your soul and every single thought about your spouse bring about a mile-long smile. And May the Moon come out early on this Karva Chauth!

(Arti Pandey is co-founder of Folk Fitness Group)