Sikh Women Do/Should Not Keep Karva Chauth Fast : Good Conduct and Contentment is The True Fast

Karva chauth is a festival celebrated by married Hindu women who observe a fast for the long life of her husband. Sadly, a significant number of Sikh women have started observing fast and have adopted the practice.

 But Gurbani rejects such rituals. Sikhism is a practical religion. Superstition and dogmas have no place in it .Sikhs do not celebrate Karva Chauth  because Sikh Gurus does not consider fasting to be meritorious.

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, believed that fasting was inferior to "truth" or "right action". He also believed that the body is a gift from God, and that humans should maintain it in good condition. Fasting is only acceptable if it's done to promote healthy eating

Gurus do not consider fasting to be a way to purify the self or realize God. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, believed that "truth" or "right action" is superior to fasting, penance, or other austerities. Gurbani teaches "the way to Waheguru (God) is to conquer the mind which is polluted by the 5 passions. By fasting and tormenting one’s body Waheguru (God) is not attained." “One who discards this grain, is practicing hypocrisy. She is neither a happy soul-bride, nor a widow".

“To practice forgiveness; good conduct and contentment is the true fast.”. The only way to attain God is by singing HIS Name and following the true path shown in Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

Dr.Gurdeep Kaur

Associate Professor

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Khalsa College

Dev Nagar

University of Delhi