Chaitra Navratri 2025 Fasting Rules: What to Eat, What to Avoid

Chaitra Navratri 2025 Fasting Rules: What to Eat, What to Avoid

Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is observed with devotion and fasting across India. Fasting during this period is not just a religious practice but also a way to detoxify the body and enhance spiritual well-being. Here is a detailed guide on what to eat and what to avoid during Chaitra Navratri 2025.

Foods You Can Eat During Chaitra Navratri

• Fruits and Dry Fruits: Fresh fruits such as bananas, apples, and pomegranates are commonly consumed. Almonds, cashews, and raisins provide energy.
• Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls): Popular in dishes like sabudana khichdi and sabudana vada, it is a great source of carbohydrates.
• Kuttu (Buckwheat) and Singhara (Water Chestnut) Flour: Used to make rotis, puris, and pakoras.
• Samak Rice: A common substitute for rice, often prepared as khichdi or pulao.
• Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt, paneer, and buttermilk are allowed.
• Rock Salt (Sendha Namak): Regular table salt is avoided; instead, rock salt is used.
• Herbs and Spices: Cumin, coriander, black pepper, and green chilies can be used to enhance flavor.

• Regular Grains: Wheat, rice, and maida are strictly avoided.
• Legumes and Pulses: Lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans should not be consumed.
• Processed and Junk Food: Packaged snacks, chips, and fast food items are not allowed.
• Garlic and Onion: These are considered tamasic foods and should be avoided.
• Alcohol and Caffeinated Beverages: Tea, coffee, and alcoholic drinks should not be consumed.
• Non-Vegetarian Food: Meat, eggs, and fish are strictly prohibited.