Navratri 2024: Pros and Cons of Fasting This Festive Season

Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival that celebrates the goddess Durga and her many forms. Each night honors a different version of the goddess and ends with Dussehra, which represents the victory of good over evil. People celebrate by fasting, praying and dancing in traditional styles such as Garba and Dandiya. Navratri brings together communities full of joy, color and cultural traditions. Fasting during this period is a common practice for many believers, aimed at purifying the body and mind.

Fasting rules may vary from person to person, with some opting for complete fasting while others consume certain Navratri fasting foods. If you are planning to fast this Navratri, here are some important do's and don'ts to keep in mind.

DOS

Eat fruit/fasting foods: Focus on consuming fruits, dry fruits, nuts, dairy products and Navratri approved ingredients like buckwheat flour etc Sabudana. Enjoy fresh vegetables like pumpkin, potatoes and sweet potatoes. If necessary, start your day before sunrise with light, energizing foods.

Cooking with pure oils: Use Desi ghee or peanut oil for cooking your fasting meals to maintain purity. Avoid refined and seed-based oils.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or herbal teas throughout the day to maintain your energy levels.

Wear clean clothing: Maintain cleanliness by wearing fresh clothes every day during the festival.

Break the fast lightly: It is customary to break the fast after sunset. Choose light meals that are easy to digest, such as fruit or simple meals vrat ka khanato maintain energy levels.

Bans

Avoid non-vegetarian foods: Avoid consuming any non-vegetarian food, including eggs, to maintain a pure and Sattvic diet.

Don't eat too much: Avoid excessive consumption of permitted foods, especially when breaking your fast. Keep meals light and easy to digest.

No packaged foods: Avoid processed or packaged foods that may contain additives and preservatives. Stick with fresh, home-cooked meals.

Do not cut hair or nails: Traditionally, it is not recommended to cut hair or nails during Navratri to avoid attracting negative energies.

Avoid caffeinated/sugary drinks: Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks as these can cause dehydration and affect your fasting experience.