Sawan Shivratri, an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Shiva, falls during the holy month of Sawan (Shravan). This year, Sawan Shivaratri will be observed on August 2. Devotees across India observe this day with great devotion and fervour, often undertaking a fast (vrat) to seek blessings and show their reverence. Fasting during Sawan Shivaratri involves specific dietary restrictions and guidelines. Here are some foods you can include in your Sawan Shivaratri vrat, ensuring you stay energised and nourished while adhering to the traditional fasting rules.

Sawan Shivratri Vrat: Types of Fast

The month of Sawan is considered extremely auspicious among Hindu devotees. Fasting, or vrat, is one of the most significant rituals of Sawan Shivratri for Lord Shiva devotees. But people follow different fasting rituals during this time. While some observe a strict fast, refraining from eating grains and any kind of tamasic food, others follow nirjala upvas (no water or food for the day). Again, some opt for a complete fast during the day and eat light fruits in the evening. Some devotees also eat only once at night and that too, without salt. Whatever fasting rituals you wish to follow, it is important to keep your health in mind and decide on the Sawan Shivratri vrat method.

Fasting Meals To Eat During Sawan Shivratri Vrat

Devotees observe rigorous fasts during Sawan Shivaratri by adhering to Satvik diet. The Vedic scriptures have divided foods as Satvik, Rajasic, and Tamasic. Satvik bhojan is a light, vegetarian meal, whereas, Rajasic and Tamasic are heavy, dense foods.  Take a look at some Satvik foods you can consume during Sawan Shivaratri fasts.

1. Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)

Sabudana, or tapioca pearls, is a staple food for fasting and is known for its energy-boosting properties. It is easy to digest and can be prepared in various ways, such as sabudana khichdi or sabudana vada. Sabudana khichdi, made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and potatoes, is a savoury and filling option that keeps you energised throughout the fast.

2. Fruits

Fruits are an essential part of the Sawan Shivaratri vrat diet. They are not only refreshing but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Commonly consumed fruits include bananas, apples, and papayas. They can be eaten as snacks or combined into a fruit salad for a nutritious meal. Including various fruits in your diet ensures that you stay hydrated and nourished during the fast.

3. Lassi and Chaas

Lassi and chaas are popular yoghurt-based drinks that are both refreshing and hydrating. Meethi lassi, a sweetened version of this traditional drink, is particularly favoured during fasting. These drinks help in maintaining hydration and providing a cooling effect to the body. Chaas, or buttermilk, is a savoury option that aids digestion and keeps you feeling full.

4. Buckwheat Flour (Kuttu Ka Atta)

Buckwheat flour, known as kuttu ka atta, is widely used during fasting periods. It is gluten-free and rich in protein and fibre. You can prepare various dishes like kuttu ki puri or kuttu ka dosa. These dishes are not only delicious but also provide the necessary energy to sustain you through the day. You can always pair kuttu ki puri with vratwale aloo during Sawan Shivaratri.

5. Samak Rice (Barnyard Millet)

Samak rice, or barnyard millet, is another excellent choice for vrat meals. It resembles broken rice in texture and can be cooked similarly. Samak rice is light on the stomach and can be paired with vrat-friendly curries or simply made into a pulao with vegetables and spices allowed during fasting.

6. Makhana (Fox Nuts)

Makhana, or fox nuts, are a great snack option for those observing the fast. They are low in calories, rich in protein, and have a crunchy texture. Makhana can be roasted with a little ghee and seasoned with rock salt for a tasty and satisfying snack. You can also make makhana raita with yoghurt. They help in keeping hunger pangs at bay while providing essential nutrients.

Fasting Rules To Follow

Observing the vrat during Sawan Shivratri involves certain dietary restrictions and rules. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind.

1. Avoid Grains and Pulses: Traditional fasting rules prohibit the consumption of regular grains and pulses. Instead, focus on alternatives like buckwheat, amaranth, and tapioca.

2. No Onion and Garlic: Onions and garlic are typically avoided during fasting as they are believed to generate heat in the body.

3. Use Rock Salt (Sendha Namak): Regular table salt is replaced with rock salt during fasting as it is considered pure and unprocessed.

4. Include Dairy Products: Dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and paneer are encouraged as they are sattvic (pure) and provide essential nutrients.

5. Moderation is Key: While it is important to stay nourished, moderation should be practiced to maintain the spiritual sanctity of the fast.

Observing the Sawan Shivratri vrat with the right foods can make the fasting experience both spiritually fulfilling and physically nourishing. Including the above mentioned vrat foods in your diet ensures that you maintain your energy levels and stay hydrated. These foods are not only permissible but also beneficial, helping you stay focused on your devotion while taking care of your health.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 31, 2024 11:42 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).