Hindu Fasting: Traditions, Significance, and Calendar

Hindu fasting is an ancient practice deeply rooted in spirituality and devotion. It is a way to express gratitude to the divine, seek blessings, and purify the mind and body. Observed on specific days, months, or during important festivals, fasting in Hinduism varies by region, deity, and occasion. It is widely believed that fasting not only cleanses the body but also uplifts the soul by reducing negative karmic influences.

This article explores the various aspects of Hindu fasting, including its historical references in Indian scriptures, different types, monthly fasting calendars, start and end times, food guidelines, and benefits.

What is Hindu Fasting?

Hindu fasting, known as Vrat (व्रत) or Upvas (उपवास), is an integral part of religious and spiritual discipline. It involves abstaining from certain foods, water, or both, depending on the type and purpose of the fast.

Hindus believe that fasting enhances mental clarity, self-discipline, and devotion to God. Different fasting methods exist, ranging from complete abstinence to consuming specific sattvic foods like fruits, nuts, and dairy.

Hindu Fasting in Various Indian Languages

Hindu fasting is known by different names in various Indian national and regional languages:

1. Hindi - Vrat (व्रत), Upvas (उपवास)

2. Bengali - Upabas (উপবাস)

3. Marathi - Upvas (उपवास)

4. Kannada - Upavasa (ಉಪವಾಸ)

5. Tamil - Viratham (விரதம்)

6. Telugu - Upavasam (ఉపవాసం)

7. Gujarati - Upvas (ઉપવાસ)

8. Malayalam - Upavāsam (ഉപവാസം)

Each of these terms reflects a common theme of sacrifice, devotion, and purification in Hindu religious practice.

Mentions of Hindu Fasting in Scriptures

Hindu fasting is extensively mentioned in ancient texts, including:

1. Vedas:

• The Rigveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda describe fasting as a way to purify both the body and soul.

• Fasting is associated with detachment from worldly pleasures and preparing oneself for higher spiritual consciousness.

2. Upanishads:

• The Chandogya Upanishad emphasises fasting as a means of self-control and inner purification.

• It describes how fasting can lead to mental strength and wisdom.

3. Puranas:

• Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana highlight fasting as an offering to deities like Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Devi Durga.

• The Skanda Purana mentions specific fasting days like Ekadashi and Pradosh Vrat.

4. The Bhagavad Gita:

• Lord Krishna, in the Bhagavad Gita, explains that fasting done with the right intent leads to spiritual elevation.

• He describes the importance of self-discipline and moderation.

Types of Hindu Fasting

Hindu fasting varies based on duration, deity, and purpose. Some of the major types include:

1. Nirjala Upvas (Complete water and food abstinence)

2. Phalahar Upvas (Consumption of only fruits and dairy)

3. Satvik Bhojan Upvas (Eating simple, non-spicy vegetarian meals)

4. Ekadashi Fasting (Observing fast twice a month dedicated to Lord Vishnu)

5. Navratri Fasting (Nine days of fasting dedicated to Goddess Durga)

6. Pradosh Vrat (Fasting on Trayodashi for Lord Shiva’s blessings)

7. Karva Chauth (Day-long fasting observed by married women for their husbands' longevity)

8. Monday Fast (Somvar Vrat) - Dedicated to Lord Shiva

9. Tuesday Fast (Mangalvar Vrat) - Dedicated to Lord Hanuman

10. Thursday Fast (Guruvar Vrat) - Dedicated to Brihaspati Dev

Hindu Fasting Calendar (Monthwise & Datewise)

This monthwise fasting calendar lists the most significant Hindu fasting days:

January

• Pausha Putrada Ekadashi

• Sankashti Chaturthi (Lord Ganesha Fasting)

• Purnima Vrat (Full Moon Fasting)

February

• Jaya Ekadashi

• Maha Shivaratri (Fasting for Lord Shiva)

March

• Amalaki Ekadashi

• Chaitra Navratri begins

• Ram Navami (Lord Rama’s birthday fasting)

April

• Kamada Ekadashi

• Hanuman Jayanti

May

• Mohini Ekadashi

• Narasimha Jayanti (Lord Narasimha Fasting)

June

• Nirjala Ekadashi (Strictest fasting day)

July

• Devshayani Ekadashi (Lord Vishnu Sleeping Period begins)

August

• Krishna Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday fasting)

September

• Parsva Ekadashi

• Pitru Paksha (Fasting for Ancestors)

October

• Sharadiya Navratri

• Vijayadashami (Dussehra fasting)

November

• Rama Ekadashi

• Kartik Purnima

December

• Utpanna Ekadashi

• Dhanu Sankranti (Solar transition fasting)

Hindu Fasting Start and End Time

• Fasting begins at sunrise and ends at sunset, or the next morning depending on the type of fast.

• Ekadashi and Pradosh fasts typically break the next day after sunrise.

• Some fasts like Karva Chauth end upon moonrise.

Hindu Fasting: What to Eat and What to Avoid

What to Eat:

• Fruits (banana, apple, papaya, pomegranate)

• Nuts and dry fruits (almonds, cashews, walnuts)

• Dairy products (milk, yogurt, paneer)

• Sattvic grains (sabudana, samak rice, buckwheat)

• Honey, rock salt, and jaggery

What to Avoid:

• Onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food

• Processed foods and excessive spices

• Grains like wheat and rice (except specific vrat-friendly grains)

• Alcohol and tobacco

Benefits of Hindu Fasting

1. Physical Benefits: Detoxifies the body, improves digestion, and boosts immunity.

2. Mental Benefits: Enhances focus, patience, and self-discipline.

3. Spiritual Benefits: Strengthens faith, devotion, and positive karma.

4. Emotional Benefits: Reduces stress and cultivates a sense of gratitude.

Hindu fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it is a spiritual journey towards self-discipline, devotion, and purification. Whether practiced for religious observance or personal discipline, fasting remains a profound way to connect with the divine, strengthen willpower, and improve overall well-being.