With Karwa Chauth just around the corner, markets across North India are buzzing with festive excitement. Women are thronging shops to get adorned with mehndi designs on their hands. They are buying cosmetics, bangles, fine clothing and other essentials to get decked up for the day. In Prayagraj of Uttar Pradesh, shoppers confirm that they shall fast without water until they spot the moon, and pray for the longevity of their spouses.