We Indians seem to be obsessed about food. And the good news is that that’s not the only thing we obsess over! So, we are greatly concerned about what others eat but forget that many don’t have anything to eat. We believe that the best way to appease the Gods is to either feast till our stomachs burst or, as one of my friends had jested over lunch once - till the ‘janiwar’ breaks, or we simply like to give up food and fast, instead.
As the women get ready for the great Karva Chaut circus, praying for the longevity of their partner, the best way to do so is to fast. No prizes for guessing, there! To give them their due, couples who believe in equality in the relationship bond further over their fasting together. So romantic! Then there’s a song and dance about the whole thing - dressing up, mehendi, the customary thali that holds water etc., and the bemused full moon as he witnesses the whole drama that unfolds on Earth.
It’s good to rest the stomach and other organs involved in the process of digestion, once awhile. The rest of the days make up for that, in any case. But what of those who starve almost every night? Their's is without all the pageantry and blessings for longevity! Actually, I am almost certain, that, given their situation, they don’t quite pray for longevity.
This Karva Chaut do something different. This Karva Chaut, don’t eat, alright. Dress up in all that bridal finery, if it makes you happy. But this karva chaut feed a hungry child; or buy a saree for that poorly dressed mother; treat your house-help with more dignity; and place a bright future in a girl’s hands by sponsoring her education with the money that you would spend on having your own painted with mehendi.
This Karva Chaut, give unconditionally. And be blessed by the people on Earth. Unconditionally.
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