Date with moon ...

Festivity is in the air.

More so for all the married and engaged damsels.

Their fast will speak volumes about their undying love for husbands.

Their 16 shringaar (16 adornments) will put the heavenly nymphs to shame.

Faith makes all things possible and love makes all things easy.

This is one festival, the history of which is glorious and the present, beautiful.

The women, dressed up in fineries, gather together to say their prayers. They listen to the Karwa Chauth Katha, exchange Karwas, and chant the prayers. Followed by exciting wait for the moon to rise. … when the wives and fiancés will seek blessings for the welfare, well being and prosperity of their spouse.

My reasons of celebration have nothing to do with fasting, though.

New stock of bangles, kangans and bracelets means a new, ethnic and traditional piece can be added easily to my collection.

One can easily get “feniyan” (shaped like vermicelli, made in clarified butter) as they are an important part of the rituals of this festival. And they make for a delicious and sumptuous breakfast. So, I can hoard up enough “feniyan” to last me through next year.

And I love the general ambience ... the gorgeous smiles, the festivity, the traditions, the shopping, the gifting.

Well, to each his own, they say. J

May your date with moon, bring lots of love and happiness in your life.