Devoleena Bhattacharjee on Karva Chauth: Let People Celebrate Freely

Television actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee has shared a personal perspective on Karva Chauth, urging people to respect the choices of those who celebrate the festival and those who do not.

The actress posted a detailed note on X on Thursday, sharing her thoughts on the festival and the women who observe it.

She began by sending good wishes to women celebrating the day. She said she has never observed the Karva Chauth fast because it is not a tradition in Bengali and Assamese culture. However, she added that her family enjoys many festivals with great devotion, and she has often wondered whether she should also keep this one.

"My biggest hesitation is the waterless fast. I observe fasts every Monday and sometimes on Ekadashi, but going the entire day without water is a completely different challenge. Yet I truly feel that for many couples it is an expression of love."

Devoleena pointed out that she has seen women celebrate the festival happily and that many men now fast alongside their partners. She questioned why feminism, patriarchy and judgment should be brought into a celebration that someone else chooses to enjoy. According to her, anyone who does not believe in the festival can simply choose not to observe it.

She emphasised that she is not judging anyone. Still, she believes that nobody should ruin another person's happiness.

"A mother fasts for her children and family, so if a woman wants to fast for her husband, I do not see the problem. When it is a private decision and nobody is under pressure, people should be allowed to celebrate love in whatever way feels right to them."

The actress also shared a personal anecdote. Her husband, Shaan, comes from a Muslim family, but he asks her every Karva Chauth if she plans to fast. Every year, she replies that they will see, and perhaps she will try next year.

She said she is currently breastfeeding her baby, which is why she hopes to keep the fast next year. Devoleena also questioned why people who follow intermittent fasting or keto diets for themselves become critical when a woman fasts for her husband.

Her message ended on a light note. "Women, relax a little. Love is personal, traditions are personal, and celebrations are personal too. Let people choose what brings them joy."