On the sixth day of the bright fortnight of Kartika (Oct.-Nov.) this fast is observed, mainly by women having husbands (alive) and children. The fast is observed continuously for three days. On the preceding day only one meal is taken and that too without self. On the next day, i.e. on Shasthi,women on fast do not take even water, and worship the sun with nawadya and water and keep night vigil.

The next day on Saptami, the aspirant women~go to the bathing ghats early before sunrise, and then having bathed the rising sun and then only they break their fast. The Brahmans are also fed and given gifts on this day. The fast and piety observed on this day ensure good health, longevity and happiness of their progeny and husband.

The people of Bihar have made their special celebration. The eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh and some parts of Madhya Pradesh also give great importance to this fast, and all of them celebrate it as a festival for six days beginning from the day after Diwali. On this day the sun is worshiped with great devotion as it is the sustainer of life on this planet earth .