Overview

• Drik Panchang lists the puja muhurat as 5:57–7:11 pm, the upavasa window as 6:19 am–8:13 pm, moonrise at 8:13 pm, and Chaturthi tithi from 10:54 pm on Oct. 9 to 7:38 pm on Oct. 10.
• Confusion over Oct. 9 versus Oct. 10 arose because the Chaturthi tithi spans two civil days, with outlets now confirming observance on Friday, Oct. 10.
• The core observance involves a nirjala fast from sunrise to moonrise, offering arghya to the moon, viewing the moon then the spouse through a chalni, and breaking the fast with water or food given by the husband, with some men also choosing to fast.
• The sieve ritual is explained as a symbolic search for clarity and purity, and first‑timer guides stress a protein‑rich sargi, pre‑fast hydration, avoiding caffeine or alcohol, and breaking the fast with water before light food.
• Pre‑festival activity is rising in local markets such as Bhopal with puja kits and special ‘Chauth Thalis,’ while fashion coverage highlights celebrity‑inspired festive looks.