Sharad Navratri is one of the most auspicious and celebrated festivals in India. In honor of Goddess Durga and her nine forms, people celebrate Navratri twice a year. Sharad Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri, falls in the month of Ashwin (September-October), according to the Hindu Lunar Calendar.
This year, Sharad Navratri’s date and time are October 15, 2023, to October 24, 2023. But do you know what the rules are for Sharad Navratri fasting? What can you eat and what should you avoid these nine days?
In this article, we will answer these questions and provide you with some tips and guidelines for Sharad Navratri fasting. Read on to find out more.
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Sharad Navratri Fasting Rules: Do’s and Don’ts
Here are some of the Navratri fasting rules and food tips that you should know:
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The first rule of Navratri fasting is to have pure intentions and a positive attitude. One should fast out of love and devotion for the Goddess, not out of compulsion or pressure.
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The second rule is to avoid eating any grains, cereals, pulses, legumes, or flours made from them. These are tamasic (impure) foods that can lower one’s energy and consciousness. Instead, one should eat sattvic foods that can enhance one’s vitality and spirituality.
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The third rule is to avoid eating onions, garlic, ginger, or other root vegetables. These foods stimulate the senses and create heat in the body, and they are tamasic. Instead, one should eat fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, dairy products, and other foods that can cool and calm the body and mind.
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The fourth rule is to avoid eating any meat, eggs, fish, or other animal products. These are also considered to be tamasic foods that can increase one’s aggression and violence. Instead, one should eat foods that can promote peace and harmony within oneself and with others.
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The fifth rule is to avoid eating any salt, sugar, spices, or oil. These are also considered to be tamasic foods that can create cravings and attachments. Instead, one should eat foods that are simple and natural, such as rock salt (sendha namak), jaggery (gud), honey (shahad), ghee, or coconut oil.
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The sixth rule is to avoid eating any food or drink that contains caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, or other intoxicants. These are also considered to be tamasic foods that can impair one’s judgment and awareness. Instead, one should drink plenty of water, milk, fruit juices, coconut water, or herbal teas that can hydrate and detoxify the body.
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The seventh rule is to avoid eating any food that is stale, rotten, or leftover. These foods can cause infections and diseases, and so can toxic foods. Instead, one should eat fresh and cooked food that is prepared with love and care.
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The eighth rule is to avoid eating any food that is too hot or too cold. This disturbs the balance of the body temperature. Instead, one should eat food at a moderate temperature that suits one’s constitution and climate.
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The ninth rule is to avoid eating any food that is too much or too little. These are also tamasic foods that can create greed and deprivation. Instead, one should eat food that is enough to satisfy one’s hunger and nourish one’s body.
Well, It’s A Wrap!
To conclude, Navratri fasting is a wonderful opportunity to cleanse and rejuvenate the body and mind and to honor and worship the Goddess Durga. By following the Navratri fasting rules and food tips, one can experience the spiritual and physical benefits of this sacred practice.
Navratri fasting is not only a religious duty but also a way of life that can bring joy and peace to oneself and others. May the Goddess bless you with her grace and power during this Navratri and always.
Jai Mata Di! Happy Navratri!🙏
