Karva Chauth UK 28th October 2007

oct 28th, 2007

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Hindu Council UK

Karva Chauth UK 28th October 2007
The auspicious fast of Karva Chauth will grace us again this autumn and as with last year, I will clarify the auspicious time for the fast, which is to be observed by many faithful 'suhaagans'(married ladies).  For married men of course, you may observe the fast of the monthly Ganesh Chauth that coincides with the Karva Chauth.  This will not only support your partner's resolve to fast, but ensure that you attain increased merit for your endeavours, by observing the day jointly.
The conclusion of Karva Chauth involves the offering of sanctified water (arghya) to the moon, as it represents Shiva and Parvati.  The fast is therefore a 'Chandranakta' vrat, concluding at moonrise, when the moon is visible.  The Shastras (law books) stipulate that at the time of concluding the fast, the lunar day (tithi) must be prevailing.  In the case of Karva Chauth, the lunar day must be the Chauth (i.e. fourth) at the time of concluding the fast and giving 'arghya'.  In the UK on Sunday 28th October 2007 at the time of moonrise (5.29pm-GMT in London and earlier further north), it will be the Chauth and therefore those observing the fast on this date will fulfil the criterion.  However, on Monday 29th October 2007 in the UK, the Chauth will expire at 2.32pm in the afternoon and the panchmi (fifth lunar day) will have started. Therefore at moonrise which will be at 6.25pm it will be panchmi and not chauth as required.  The confusion is attributed to the fact that many are relying on panchangs (almanacs), jantris and calendars based on Indian time.  For countries in the east such as India, the fast will be kept on 29th October however for countries in the west such as UK and USA; it will be the preceding day. May the Supreme Power of male and female energies Lord Shiva and Parvati Mata bestow all couples and their families with the choicest of blessings. Dr Raj Pandit Sharma Executive Member – Hindu Ceremonies Hindu Council UK

Note: Hindu Council UK is the foremost and largest national network of the Hindu temple bodies and cultural organisations co-ordinating all different schools of Hindu theology within the UK

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