Navratri Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Navratri Vrat
Navratri Vrat spans nine nights of fasting and devotion to the nine forms of Goddess Durga: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. Observed four times yearly (Chaitra, Ashadha, Ashwin, and Magha Navratri), the most prominent are Chaitra and Sharad (Ashwin) Navratri. Each day's deity is worshipped with specific colors and offerings.
Last updated: 19 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Removes all sins, fulfills all desires, destroys enemies and negative forces, bestows health, wealth, and wisdom, ensures divine protection for all nine days.
Procedure
Day 1 (Pratipadha): Install Ghatasthapana (sacred pot). Worship each day's form with specific color offerings. Chant Durga Saptashati. Perform Kanya Puja on Ashtami. Conduct havan on Navami. Break fast on Dashami after Navami puja.
When to Observe
Four times annually: Chaitra (spring), Ashadha (summer), Ashwin (autumn), and Magha (winter) Navratri.
Fasting Rules
Avoid grains, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Sabudana, kuttu flour, singhara flour, fruits, and milk are allowed. Some observe nirjala (complete fast).
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on Dashami (10th day) after Vijaya Dashami puja. Many break partially on Ashtami after Kanya Puja.
FAQ
Q.What is Navratri Vrat?
Navratri Vrat spans nine nights of fasting and devotion to the nine forms of Goddess Durga: Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. Observed four times yearly (Chaitra, Ashadh...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Navratri Vrat?
Avoid grains, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Sabudana, kuttu flour, singhara flour, fruits, and milk are allowed. Some observe nirjala (complete fast).
Q.When should Navratri Vrat be observed?
Four times annually: Chaitra (spring), Ashadha (summer), Ashwin (autumn), and Magha (winter) Navratri.
Q.What are the benefits of Navratri Vrat?
Removes all sins, fulfills all desires, destroys enemies and negative forces, bestows health, wealth, and wisdom, ensures divine protection for all nine days.