Karwa Chauth 2023: 7 must have elements in Sargi thali

Karwa Chauth, a significant and cherished festival in Hindu culture, is celebrated with great enthusiasm by married women across India. The festival falls on the fourth day of the Kartik month in the Hindu calendar and involves a day-long fast observed by married women to pray for the well-being, longevity, and prosperity of their husbands. The fast commences before sunrise and concludes after the sighting of the moon at night, followed by a grand celebration. A pivotal aspect of Karwa Chauth is the Sargi, a pre-dawn meal that mothers-in-law lovingly prepare for their daughters-in-law to provide them with the energy and sustenance to endure the day without food or water.

 

 

 

 

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Sargi is not just a meal but a heartfelt gesture that symbolizes the bonds of love and respect between a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law. It comprises various elements, each carrying its own significance. Let's delve into the seven must-have elements that make up a traditional Sargi and understand their importance.

1. Fruits: Fruits, especially citrus fruits like oranges and bananas, provide essential vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars that help sustain energy levels throughout the day. They signify the sweet and refreshing moments in married life.

2. Dry Fruits and Nuts: Almonds, cashews, and walnuts are packed with protein and healthy fats, making them an ideal choice for sustaining energy during the fast. The crunchy nuts symbolize the strength and resilience of the married bond.

3. Sweets: A piece of mithai or sweetmeat is included to add a touch of sweetness to the Sargi, symbolizing the sweet aspects of marital life and the hope for a life filled with love and joy.

4. Suji or Wheat-based Foods: Dishes made from suji (semolina) or wheat like halwa or parathas are included in the Sargi to provide a feeling of fullness and lasting energy. These grains represent the bond's stability and longevity.

5. Savory Items: Savory dishes such as fenugreek or spinach parathas are included to balance the sweetness and provide a sense of satiety. They symbolize the ups and downs in married life that one must embrace together.

6. Coconut: A whole coconut, often considered a symbol of purity and prosperity, is a customary element in Sargi. It represents the fulfillment of wishes and a happy and prosperous married life.

7. Mathri and Singhara: Mathri, a flaky, savory snack, and Singhara, a water chestnut, are included for their ability to quench thirst and provide sustenance during the fast. They signify the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in a married life.

In conclusion, Sargi is not just a meal; it's a symbol of love, blessings, and wishes for a thriving married life. Each element in the Sargi represents different facets of marriage and the desire for a harmonious, sweet, and enduring relationship. This Karwa Chauth, as you savor your Sargi, remember the profound cultural and emotional significance behind each element and the enduring love that binds generations of Indian families.

• Karwa Chauth 2023
• Karwa Chauth