13 Karwa Chauth Alternatives for Modern Couples

11. Alternative 11: Modern Puja: Short, Meaningful Ceremony

If a full traditional puja feels long or complex, design a concise ceremony that keeps key symbols. Choose three or four ritual elements that matter most—lighting a diya, offering flowers, reciting a short blessing, and anointing each other’s forehead with a small tilak. Prepare a compact thali with a lamp, small sweets, and a bowl of water or rose petals. Perform the ceremony together, and make time afterward for a short conversation about mutual wishes and responsibilities. This pared-down ritual respects tradition while acknowledging modern time constraints and lifestyle differences. It’s also easier to host for small families or to perform in a hotel room during travel. For diaspora couples, include a line or two in your family language or a short blessing from an elder recorded in advance. The result is a meaningful, portable practice that can fit nearly any schedule while retaining cultural reverence.