The romanticism of Karwa Chauth

Karwa Chauth is the most celebrated festival in Hindi movies. Isn’t it? Thanks to Yash Chopra (RIP), the entire nation knows about the rituals of it! I think he is also responsible for a new breed on converts who want to fast even if it is not their tradition to. I have always pondered what drives women like these to want to fast the whole day. And I think the answer lies in the romanticism created around the festival. The dressing up in lovely clothes, gathering together, doing puja and then song and dance! Honestly, the guys who have directed these must have never fasted coz by the time puja is over, we are conserving energy by speaking less… songs and dance? forget it. But that’s not the point here. All this happy imagery makes people want to be a part of it. And the chaand ka wait. There is an excitement in that too, na? Climbing on the terrace and gazing up at the sky with your hubby. Waiting for the moon to emerge from behind the clouds. Ooooh! So romantic. Forget about the bhook pyaas (hunger and thirst) that is supposed to be troubling you. The romance of the moment should distract you from it. And with the moon rise, the stolen glances from beneath a sieve, offering water and the tender loving looks. Perfect Indian romance. Don’t you agree? How can such powerful imagery not seduce the youth. No wonder even unmarried girls want to fast!!

My first Fast