A vibrant and spiritually important Hindu festival, Navri, is celebrated with great devotion all over India. Spread for nine nights and ten days, it is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine divine forms. While prayers are the main part of prayer, fasting and dance festival, food also plays an important role during this sacred period.
Fasting during Navratri is not just about religious rearing; It is also a way to detoxify the body and brain. However, there are specific diet rules that follow devotees. There is a guide here what to eat and what to avoid during Navratri fast.
What to eat during Navratri
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During Navratri, fasting is not hungry – it is about eating sattvik (pure and light) food that nourishes the body and supports spiritual practices.
1. Fruit and fresh juice
Fruits such as bananas, apples, papaya, pomegranate, and coconut are commonly consumed. Freshly squeezed juice helps maintain energy levels and hydration.
2. Subudhana (tapioca pearl)
Used in dishes such as Sabudana Khichdi and Sabudana Vada, it is a main fasting component. It is light and rich in carbohydrates, perfect for energy.
3. Rock salt (rock salt)
Regular salt (table salt) is avoided. Instead, rock salt is used in cooking and spices during fasting.
4. Kuttu (water chestnut flour)
These are gluten-free and fasting-oriented flour used to make rotis, puris and pakora.
5. Potatoes, sweet potato, and arbi (colcosia)
Route vegetables are allowed and are usually used to make curry or fried snacks.
6. Dairy product
Milk, curd, cheese and ghee are allowed and often used in various fasting dishes for energy and nutrition.
7. Equal Rice (Barnard millet)
Also known as fasting rice, it is a great rice option and is used to prepare casserole or kheer.
8. Nut and dried fruits
Almonds, raisins, cashews, and walnuts provide protein and healthy fats, which helps you stay for a long time.
What to avoid during Navratri
To maintain the sanctity of the festival, certain foods and ingredients are strictly deferred.
1. Onion and garlic
They are considered tamasic (heavy and impure) and are saved to promote a sattvik diet.
2. Mango salt
Table salt is not used during Navratri. Change it with deserted salt for all your food.
3. Non-vegetarian food
All forms of meat, fish and eggs are strictly banned during Navratri.
4. Grains and pulses
Wheat, rice (regular), pulses and legumes are saved. Instead, options like a type of grain and millet are used.
5. Alcohol and caffeine
The consumption of alcohol, tea and coffee is discouraged during Navratri fasting as they interfere with the body’s detox process.
6. Packed and processed food
They often contain hidden elements that are not allowed during fasting. It is best to live with fresh, home-centered food.
Tips for a healthy Navratri fast
- Stay hydrated with water, coconut water and herbal tea.
- Do not leave food – Eat small parts throughout the day.
- Avoid deeply fried food to maintain energy without dullness.
- Break your fast with some light like fruits or warm milk.
This Navratri can bring you health, happiness and harmony. Shub Navratri!