The Ultimate Navratri Fasting Guide: Tips, Foods, and Colors for 9 Divine Days

Rohan | Mar 30, 2025, 21:21 IST

Navratri, the nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is a time of devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual cleansing. Many devotees observe fasting during this period, following specific dietary restrictions and wearing different colors each day to honor the Goddess. If you're planning to observe Navratri fasting, this complete guide will help you with essential tips, the right foods to eat, and the significance of colors for each day.

Fasting Tips for Navratri

navratri food guide for fast

Plan Your Meals in Advance
Prepare a meal schedule to ensure you have the right fasting foods available.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water, coconut water, buttermilk, and herbal teas to stay energized.
Eat Small, Frequent Meals
Instead of one large meal, consume smaller portions throughout the day to maintain energy levels.
Avoid Processed and Fried Foods
Opt for fresh, natural foods instead of deep-fried snacks to maintain good health.
Incorporate Fruits and Nuts
Fruits and dry fruits provide essential nutrients and energy.
Use Rock Salt (Sendha Namak)
Regular salt is avoided during fasting; use sendha namak in your meals.
Get Enough Rest
Proper sleep helps in keeping the body refreshed and energetic.
Meditate and Stay Positive
Engage in prayers, meditation, and devotional activities to strengthen your spiritual connection.

Foods to Eat During Navratri Fasting

navratri vrat prasad

Fruits: Apples, bananas, pomegranates, and papaya
Flours Allowed: Singhara atta (water chestnut flour), Kuttu atta (buckwheat flour), Rajgira (amaranth flour)
Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt, paneer, buttermilk
Vegetables: Potatoes, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, bottle gourd, spinach, carrots
Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, fox nuts (makhana), sunflower seeds
Grains: Samak rice (barnyard millet)
Beverages: Lemon water, coconut water, herbal tea, fresh fruit juice
Sweeteners: Jaggery, honey

Foods to Avoid During Navratri

Grains: Wheat, rice, maida, semolina
Pulses & Lentils: All types of dal and legumes
Vegetables: Onion, garlic, brinjal
Spices: Turmeric, mustard seeds, garam masala
Non-Vegetarian Food: Meat, eggs, and seafood
Processed & Junk Foods: Chips, biscuits, packaged snacks

Navratri Colors and Their Significance

Each day of Navratri is associated with a particular color, symbolizing different forms of Goddess Durga and attracting positive energy.

Day 1 – Grey (Pratipada)

Signifies strength and the ability to destroy evil. Wear grey and consume dishes made from singhara atta and makhana.

Day 2 – Orange (Dwitiya)

Symbolizes energy and happiness. Opt for orange outfits and eat sweet potatoes and pumpkin-based dishes.

Day 3 – White (Tritiya)

Represents peace and purity. Wear white and include dairy products and coconut in your diet.

Day 4 – Red (Chaturthi)

Associated with passion and courage. Wear red and eat pomegranate, apples, and rajgira-based dishes.

Day 5 – Royal Blue (Panchami)

Denotes divine energy and strong willpower. Choose royal blue and include paneer and samak rice in meals.

Day 6 – Yellow (Shashti)

Symbolizes happiness and brightness. Wear yellow and consume banana, buttermilk, and jaggery-based sweets.

Day 7 – Green (Saptami)

Represents growth and harmony. Wear green and eat fresh leafy vegetables like spinach and bottle gourd.

Day 8 – Peacock Green (Ashtami)

Signifies strength and prosperity. Dress in peacock green and include nuts and honey in your fasting diet.

Day 9 – Purple (Navami)

Symbolizes ambition and power. Wear purple and enjoy a wholesome meal with kuttu atta and paneer.

Conclusion

Observing Navratri fasting not only brings spiritual benefits but also detoxifies the body. By following these fasting tips, consuming nutritious foods, and embracing the colors of each day, you can make the most of this divine festival. Stay devoted, stay healthy, and celebrate the power of Goddess Durga with faith and positivity!