The holy month of Sawan, also known as Shravan Maas, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the most auspicious periods in the Hindu calendar. During this month, devotees observe various rituals and fasts, particularly on Mondays, known as Sawan Somwars. Sawan Somwars 2024 will begin on July 22 and culminate on August 19. Observing a fast during this period is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and spiritual growth. However, maintaining a fast requires careful consideration of what to eat to sustain energy and devotion. Sawan Somwar is observed with great reverence as Mondays are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the month of Shravan is considered highly auspicious for worshipping him. Devotees fast on Mondays to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva for health, wealth, and overall well-being. The fasts are marked by rituals, prayers, and visits to Shiva temples, where devotees offer milk, fruits, and Bilva leaves to the deity. In this article, we’ll learn about Vrat foods you can consume during Sawan Somwars that help maintain a balanced diet. Sawan (Shravan) 2024 Start and End Dates: When Is Sawan Maas Beginning? Know Significance, Traditions and Rituals Related to Holy Month Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Foods to Eat During the Shravan Fast

Fasting during Sawan Somwar is not just about abstaining from certain foods but also about purifying the mind and body. It’s essential to consume foods that provide energy, are easy to digest, and adhere to the fasting rules. Here are some recommended foods to eat during the Shravan fast.

Seasonal Fruits

Fruits are a staple during fasting. They are light, nutritious, and provide essential vitamins and minerals. Popular choices include bananas, apples, oranges, and papayas. For variety, fruits can be eaten as they are or made into fruit salads.

Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)

Sabudana is a popular fasting food rich in carbohydrates that provides a quick energy boost. Sabudana khichdi, made with peanuts, potatoes, and spices, is a common dish prepared during the fast. You can also make sabudana vara, which are deep-fried fritters made of tapioca pearls and flavoured with masalas.

Dairy Products

Dairy products such as milk, yoghurt, paneer, and buttermilk are highly recommended during the Shravan fast. They are excellent sources of protein and calcium and help maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Samak Rice (Barnyard Millet)

Samak rice, also known as vrat ke chawal, is a typical fasting food. It can be cooked and eaten like regular rice or made into dishes like samak rice khichdi or pulao with vegetables and mild spices.

Nuts and Dry Fruits

Nuts and dry fruits, such as almonds, cashews, raisins, and dates, are excellent sources of energy and nutrients. They can be eaten as snacks or added to dishes like sabudana khichdi or fruit salads for an extra nutritional boost.

Kuttu Ka Atta (Buckwheat Flour)

Buckwheat flour is commonly used to make rotis, puris, or pakoras during the Shravan fast. It is gluten-free and rich in fibre, helping keep you full longer.

Potatoes

Potatoes are versatile and can be used to prepare a variety of fasting-friendly dishes. Aloo jeera, vrat wale aloo, or simple boiled potatoes seasoned with rock salt and pepper are popular choices.

Makhana

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is a popular snack during the Shravan fast. They are low in calories and high in fibre, making them an excellent choice for weight management. It is also a good source of protein, calcium, and antioxidants. You can either consume them in the roasted form or make makhana kheer.

Observing the Shravan fast, especially on Sawan Somwars, is a spiritual practice that requires discipline and devotion. Choosing the right foods is essential to maintain energy levels and uphold the sanctity of the fast. By including fruits, dairy products, nuts, and specific fasting-friendly grains and flours, devotees can ensure they stay nourished while adhering to the fasting rules.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 19, 2024 02:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).