Can I drink water on Karvā Cauth if I am pregnant or unwell — and what is sargī?

yes — pregnant, nursing or unwell women should take water and food as needed; sargī is the pre-dawn meal from the mother-in-law.

Karvā Cauth (Kārtika kṛṣṇa caturthī) is traditionally a nirjalā fast from sunrise to moonrise. Before dawn, the mother-in-law gives sargī: fruits, dry fruits, sweets like pheṇī, mathrī and a little milk or tea, plus suhāg items. The fast ends after the evening kathā and offering arghya to the moon through a sieve, when the husband gives the first sip of water.

The śāstras exempt the ill and pregnant from hard fasting, and no tradition asks a woman to risk her baby or her health. A pregnant woman can keep the vrat as a phalāhāra fast with water, milk and fruit, or simply do the pūjā and kathā. The same applies to diabetics, nursing mothers and anyone on medication.

Many husbands now fast alongside their wives, and in some homes another family member keeps the strict fast on the woman’s behalf. If your situation is specific, Ask Chiluka.

Health first: pregnant and ill women are exempt · Source: Nirṇayasindhu (exemptions); family practice

Dharma Q&A — vratas, festivals & temples · Ask a Jyotishi your own question