The Karwa Chauth glow-up: where tradition meets the beauty chair

By Manya Bhasin

The moon may be the most awaited sight on Karwa Chauth, but for many women, the countdown begins much earlier — in front of a salon mirror, with a facial brush in hand, freshly painted nails and the anticipation of dressing up for the occasion.

As the festival of Karwa Chauth approaches, beauty salons across Chandigarh are offering everything from specialised facials to makeover packages. While some establishments are witnessing a significant festive rush, others are experiencing a quieter season, reflecting the varied ways women prepare for the celebration.

At Fioro Salon in Sector 27, the festive excitement is evident in a daily footfall of approximately 70 to 100 clients, significantly higher than on regular days. Women across age groups have been visiting for facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures, with preparations beginning nearly a week in advance.

The salon is offering corporate packages starting at Rs 2,700, with discounts of around 40–45 per cent. Party make-up, normally priced at Rs 3,800, is available for Rs 1,999. Its organic ‘Pure Radiance’ facial has emerged as a particularly popular choice, while complete makeover packages are attracting women who prefer to combine multiple services.

The scene is somewhat different at Gitanjali in Elante Mall, where a representative reported around 50 customers daily, adding that regular days are generally busier. Here, festive preparations began two to three days before the festival, with facials, pedicures and hair treatments among the most requested services. Most festive clients are aged 30 and above.

The salon is offering a D-Tan treatment or blow-dry with facial bookings worth Rs 5,000 or more. Its standard facial starts at Rs 4,000, while manicures and pedicures begin at Rs 1,000. Basic makeover packages are available from Rs 3,000.
Unlike the bustling atmosphere at some salons, Cleopatra Salon in Sector 44 is witnessing a quieter pre-festive season, with around four to five customers walking in daily. Rather than opting for elaborate makeovers, customers are keeping their preparations simple, choosing everyday beauty essentials such as facials, waxing and other grooming services.

The salon is offering customised packages ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500, covering clean-ups, manicures, pedicures, threading and waxing.

The trend reflects how women are embracing the festive spirit in their own ways, proving that looking one’s best for Karwa Chauth does not necessarily require an extravagant beauty routine.

Across the salons, one preference stands out: customers often choose packages rather than individual treatments. While some are investing in elaborate makeovers, others are opting for affordable grooming services that fit their budgets.

The figures may differ, but the purpose remains familiar. For many women, preparing for Karwa Chauth is about more than appearance. It is a moment to pause amid everyday responsibilities, embrace tradition and feel special before the evening’s rituals begin.
And when the moon finally rises, the day’s preparations become part of a celebration whose glow extends far beyond the salon mirror.

The Writer is an intern with The North News.