Navratri Fasting Guide: In Hindu religion, the festival of Navratri is considered very sacred and important for the worship of Mother Durga. In the year 2026, Chaitra Navratri will be celebrated from 19th March to 27th March. During these nine days, devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga and observe fast to obtain blessings. There is a religious belief that the fast of Navratri is not only the sacrifice of food, but it also symbolizes the purification of mind, words and deeds. Therefore, it is considered necessary to follow some special rules while observing fast. If these rules are ignored then the full results of the puja are not achieved.
Main rules of Navratri fast
Take special care of cleanliness
It is considered auspicious to clean the house thoroughly before the start of Navratri. Keep the place of worship sacred and perform Aarti of Goddess Durga every morning and evening.
Do the Kalash installation method
Kalash Sthapana (Ghat Sthapana) is done with rituals on the first day of Navratri i.e. on Pratipada Tithi. After this, lighting the Akhand Jyoti and worshiping the Mother Goddess for nine days is considered auspicious.
eat only satvik food
During the fast of Navratri, one keeps distance from Tamasic food. During this period, garlic, onion, meat, alcohol and grains are not consumed. Fruits, milk, sago, water chestnut flour, buckwheat flour and rock salt are used in the fast.
keep your mind and thoughts pure
Fast is not only for the body but also for the mind. During this time, lying, getting angry, criticizing someone or having wrong thoughts is considered inauspicious.
practice celibacy
According to religious belief, one should observe celibacy during the nine days of Navratri and focus on spiritual practice.
Worship Maa Durga daily
Different forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped every day of Navratri. Reciting Durga Chalisa, Durga Saptashati or mantras is considered very auspicious.
Special importance of Kanya Puja
Kanya Puja is performed on the last day of Navratri i.e. Ashtami or Navami Tithi. Considering small girls as the embodiment of their mother, they are fed food and blessings are taken.
Stay away from these things during Navratri fast
- Cutting hair and nails should be avoided during Navratri.
- Non-vegetarian food and alcohol should not be consumed at home.
- Dirt or shoes should not be kept near the place of worship.
- Keep distance from negative thoughts during the fast.
Religious importance of Navratri
The festival of Navratri is a symbol of worship of Shakti. It is believed that worshiping Goddess Durga with true heart during these nine days removes the troubles of life and brings happiness and prosperity. This is also considered to be the time for self-purification, spiritual practice and gaining positive energy.
Also read: Chaitra Navratri Ashtami 2026: Why Ashtami of Navratri is considered special, know what is the significance of this date?
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.