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Navratri is a 9 day celebration that honors Goddess Durga and is marked by prayer, fasting, and devotion. October is when Shardiya Navratri 2024 will take place. There are certain things that should avoid during Navratri, it is observed by fasting from sunrise to sunset. This year, it is expected to begin on 2024 October 3 and finish on 2024 October 11.

Navratri is observed four times a year, but the most important celebrations are reportedly Chaitra and Shardiya Navratri. The other two festivals are Magha Gupt Navratri and Asadha Gupt Navratri.

On the final day of Navratri, after the Parana hour, which is usually in the afternoon, you can break your fast. Navratri fasting calls for self-control and adherence to strict guidelines, particularly for those who are fasting for the first time.

Keep reading to discover 11 important things to avoid during Navratri fasting, along with the do’s and don’ts for those observing the fast for the first time in Navratri 2024.

Navratri, a Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga, is an occasion of great devotion and celebration. During these nine days, Hindus engage in prayer, fasting, and introspection to purify their hearts and minds.

Each day is dedicated to a specific form of the goddess, such as Saraswati for knowledge and Lakshmi for wealth, fostering spiritual growth and well-being. The festival brings communities together through dance, music, and vibrant attire, with Garba and Dandiya being popular traditional dances. Navratri is a time of joy, unity, and cultural expression, transcending religious boundaries and promoting values like inner strength, devotion, and harmony. It holds immense significance for Hindus world.

Fasting is a common practice during Navratri, wherein devotees abstain from certain foods and follow specific rituals. To make the most of this spiritual and purifying experience, here are some guidelines on what to do and avoid during Navratri fasting.

Do’s to Keep in Mind and Avoid During Navratri Fast

1. Devotion and prayer: Begin your day with prayers, visit temples, and participate in religious rituals to seek blessings and show devotion to Goddess Durga.
2. Eat sattvic food: Consume pure and fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, nuts, and whole grains during the fast.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and moderate amounts of milk and fruit juices.
4. Include sendha namak: Use rock salt (sendha namak) instead of regular table salt to season your dishes.
5. Mindful cooking: Maintain a clean and pure environment in the kitchen while preparing meals. Cook with devotion and gratitude.
6. Break the fast with fruit: Traditionally, the fast is broken with fruit, which helps ease the stomach back into eating solid foods.

Don’ts do these things that should avoid during Navratri Fasting:

1. No Grains or Flour: Avoid all forms of grains and flours during the fasting period.

2. Dairy Products: Steer clear of heavy dairy products and milk; opt for lighter alternatives.

3. Avoid Tamasic Foods: Stay away from fast food and any tamasic items such as eggs, beef, onions, and garlic.

4. No Alcohol: Completely avoid alcohol to maintain spiritual purity.

5. Uncut Nails and Hair: Do not cut your nails or hair during the fasting days.

6. Chastity: Maintain chaste behaviour and thoughts throughout the fasting period.

7. Avoid Intoxicants: Refrain from activities like drinking, smoking, and other intoxicants for a deeper spiritual experience.

8. No Garlic or Onion: Do not use garlic and onion in your food preparations.

9. No Meat or Eggs: Avoid consuming meat and eggs as these days are auspicious and dedicated to Maa Durga.

10. Gradual Breaking of Fast: Do not overindulge when breaking your fast; start with light, easily digestible foods.

11. Avoid Heavy Exercise: Refrain from heavy weight lifting or rigorous exercise; light activities are acceptable to conserve energy.

The above points will help ensure a spiritually enriching experience during Navratri. As a devotional fast, Navratri nurtures the body, mind, and soul. While certain foods are allowed to strengthen your body, there are also a few things to avoid to ensure your fasting efforts bring fruitful blessings into your life.

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How navratri is celebrated in India?

Navratri fasting bring communities together through dance, music, and vibrant attire, with Garba and Dandiya being popular traditional dances. Navratri is a time of joy, unity, and cultural expression.

When to break Navratri Fast?

Navratri fast is broken on the day when Kanjak Puja is completed. Kanjak pooja is performed by some on the eighth day, Ashtami; by others on the ninth day, Navami; and by a small number of people on the tenth, Dussehra. On days eight or nine, it is often completed.