Hyderabad: Karwa Chauth is a significant Hindu festival, symbolising a wife's devotion and prayers for her husband's long life and well-being. Traditionally, Indian Hindu wives observe a day-long fast, refraining from food and water, until sighting the moon. The festival has always been about the wife's sacrifice, but in recent years, some new-age Bollywood husbands are challenging these gender norms and embracing equality by fasting alongside their wives.
This shift reflects modern attitudes toward gender equality in marriage, where these Bollywood stars have redefined the festival's traditions. Here's a look at the leading men of Bollywood who are breaking stereotypes and observing the Karwa Chauth fast for their wives:
1. Abhishek Bachchan
Married to former Miss World and actor Aishwarya Rai for 17 years, Abhishek Bachchan has always kept a relatively low profile regarding his personal life. However, his sweet gesture of fasting for Aishwarya every Karwa Chauth has not gone unnoticed. In an earlier interview with a newswire, Abhishek revealed that he has been observing the fast for his wife ever since they got married. This yearly tradition has strengthened their bond and showcases his commitment to equality in their relationship. Abhishek's thoughtful action challenges the conventional narrative and makes Karwa Chauth a mutual celebration of love and dedication.
2. Vicky Kaushal
Vicky Kaushal is another actor who has embraced this progressive tradition. On their first Karwa Chauth after getting married in 2021, Vicky fasted with his wife, Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif. Vicky, who is accustomed to maintaining dietary restrictions due to his profession, revealed that fasting was not challenging for him. However, he shared an amusing story with a webloid about Katrina, who became restless by 8:30 pm, eagerly awaiting moonrise. According to Vicky, Katrina, whom he fondly called the "Google Queen," kept refreshing Google for the moonrise time while fasting. Their lighthearted story highlights the couple's love and mutual respect, making them one of Bollywood's most beloved pairs.
3. Ayushmann Khurrana
Actor Ayushmann Khurrana has always been known for his progressive views, and his approach to Karwa Chauth is no exception. Married to his childhood sweetheart, Tahira Kashyap, Ayushmann has made it a tradition to fast with her every year since their wedding in 2008. In 2019, when Tahira was undergoing treatment for breast cancer and unable to fast, Ayushmann took to Instagram, posting a heartfelt message that touched his fans. He shared a picture with Tahira's initials on his hand and declared that he was fasting for her long life. His gesture of support during a difficult time speaks volumes about his deep love for his wife and their commitment to standing by each other through thick and thin.