Shardiya Navratri, a celebration of the divine feminine power of Goddess Shakti, is one of the grandest festivals in India. This nine-day extravaganza is a time for devotion, fasting, and vibrant celebrations. Each day is dedicated to one of the nine avatars of Goddess Shakti, from Maa Shailputri to Maa Siddhidatri. The festival’s traditions vary across regions, with Durga Puja in the East and elaborate celebrations in Gujarat.
What You Need to Know
For 2023, Shardiya Navratri kicks off on October 15 and concludes on October 24. As you prepare to participate in this joyous festival, it’s essential to be mindful of the foods you consume. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to eat and avoid during this auspicious time.
Flours and Grains
During Navratri fasting, it’s customary to avoid regular wheat and rice. Instead, opt for flours like Kuttu ka atta, singhare ka atta, or rajgire ka atta to prepare your meals. Sabudana, the small, pearl-like tapioca balls, plays a significant role during the festival. It’s used to make delightful dishes like khichdi, papad, and vadas.
Fruits
Fruits are your friends during these nine days. In fact, it’s advisable to increase your fruit intake to keep your body hydrated and nourished. Feel free to relish a variety of fruits throughout the festival.
Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs are allowed, except for table salt. Instead, switch to rock salt as a healthier alternative for seasoning your dishes. Keep your taste buds satisfied while adhering to the Navratri dietary restrictions.
Vegetables
All kinds of vegetables are welcome during Navratri, with one exception – onions and garlic. These pungent ingredients are avoided during the festival, so be creative with your vegetable-based dishes.
Non-Vegetarian Food
Meat, fish, and eggs are strictly off the menu during Navratri. The festival encourages a vegetarian diet to align with its spiritual and dietary principles. Abstain from alcohol and smoking to fully embrace the spirit of devotion.
Conclusion
As Shardiya Navratri 2023 approaches, remember that the foods you eat and avoid are an essential part of this spiritual journey. Embrace the festival with an open heart and a disciplined palate, and you’ll find yourself enriched not only spiritually but also gastronomically. Enjoy this Navratri season while savoring the foods that nurture your body and soul.
Shardiya Navratri 2023: Foods to eat and avoid during the festival – a guide to a spiritually fulfilling and health-conscious celebration.
Navratri 2023: Dates, Colors, and Auspicious Timings
What to do in Navratri 2023?
To make the most of Navratri 2023, follow these auspicious steps:
- Pratipada Morning Ritual:
- Begin Navratri on Pratipada, the first day, by rising at Brahmamuhurta.
- Take a purifying bath and don clean or new attire.
- Chauki Setup:
- Set up a chauki (a small wooden platform) for the worship.
- Begin by creating a Swastika symbol on the chauki, a symbol of auspiciousness.
- Tilak and Installation:
- Apply tilak with Roli and Akshat on your forehead.
- Place an idol or image of Goddess Mata on the chauki.
- Devotion and Worship:
- Perform the rituals and ceremonies as prescribed for Maa Durga’s worship.
By following these sacred traditions on Pratipada, you can embark on a spiritually enriching journey during Navratri 2023.
Which food to avoid during Navratri?
When observing a nine-day fast during Navratri, it’s vital to steer clear of certain foods:
- Fast Foods and Packed Food: Avoid fast foods and packaged snacks, as they often do not align with the dietary restrictions of Navratri.
- Flour Choices: Stay away from rice flour, cornflour, and semolina, as these grains are not suitable during the fasting period.
- Tamsik Foods: Refrain from tamsik food items, including onion, garlic, eggs, and meat.
- Alcohol: Abstain from consuming alcohol throughout the Navratri days.
By avoiding these foods, you can adhere to the fasting guidelines and fully immerse yourself in the spiritual experience of Navratri.
What are the fasting rules for Chaitra Navratri 2023?
For Chaitra Navratri 2023, observe these fasting rules to maintain the sanctity of your fast:
- Avoid Tamasic Foods: Steer clear of tamasic foods, which include alcohol, non-vegetarian dishes, onions, and garlic.
- Selective Vegetables: While preparing vegetable curry, you can incorporate ingredients like tomatoes and coriander seeds. However, it’s essential to avoid brinjal, okra, and mushrooms.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a spiritually fulfilling Chaitra Navratri 2023 fast.
What should we do on the first day of Navratri?
Devotees pay homage to Maa Shailputri, the first avatar of Goddess Durga. They gather to seek blessings not only for themselves but also for the well-being of their loved ones.
Which color clothes for Navratri 2023?
Navratri 2023 Color Guide:
- Day 1: Pratipada (Shailaputri) – Wear Orange
- Day 2: Dwitiya (Brahmacharini) – Choose White
- Day 3: Tritiya (Chandraghanta) – Opt for Red
- Day 4: Chaturthi (Kushmanda) – Adorn Royal Blue
- Day 5: Panchami (Skandamata) – Embrace Yellow
These colors signify the essence of each day during Shardiya Navratri 2023.
How to start Navratri 2023?
Starting Navratri 2023:
According to Udayatithi, Sharadiya Navratri will commence on Sunday, October 15th. The Pratipada Tithi begins on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 11:24 pm and concludes on Sunday, October 15, at 12:32 pm. The auspicious time for Kalash sthapna falls between 11:44 am and 12:30 pm.
