All these things have no importance at all. They had a meaning when wars were going on. That is why these customs, especially Karva Chauth is prominent in the Western border states but missing in the South. It is as if the entire karmic process and destiny can be stalled because the wife keeps fast for the man every year! It is nothing but sheer ignorance to believe so. No doubt destiny can be changed but it is not so simple as that. Besides it is the individual concerned who has to take the necessary steps. No doubt the goodwill and love of the wife for her husband and vice versa are a great support but this support is primarily inner and has little to do with keeping fasts. Most people of course keep it for social reasons, to avoid disharmony especially when they are living with the previous generation. But isn’t it time to change these things that are more like dead shells and bring out the pearl of spirituality trapped within them? Isn’t it much better to have a perpetual love and goodwill for the partner rather than fast one day and quarrel on other days?
Affectionately,
Alok Da
