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- By Prerna Targhotra
- Fri, 06 Sep 2024 10:36 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Hartalika Teej Fasting Rules: The revered festival celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in northern India, Hartalika Teej honours Goddess Parvati and her union with Lord Shiva. The festival is predominantly observed by married women who undertake a strict fast to wish for their husbands' health and longevity. Observing this fast involves not eating or drinking from dawn until dusk and breaking the fast only after performing the evening puja. This ritual symbolises deep devotion and is believed to attract the blessings of Goddess Parvati for a blissful and prosperous marital life.
During Hartalika Teej, maintaining a balanced diet that aligns with fasting requirements is necessary. The foods consumed are chosen to provide essential nutrients and energy while adhering to the fasting norms. Typically, the diet during this period consists of light and easily digestible foods that sustain energy without compromising the integrity of the fast. Certain foods are strictly avoided to preserve the fast's sanctity and ensure that rituals are performed correctly. Here is a list of foods that you should eat and avoid during fasting.
Hartalika Teej Fasting Rules: Foods to Eat
Fruits: Fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, pomegranates and berries are ideal. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, easy on the stomach, and help keep you hydrated while maintaining energy levels.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, cashews and pumpkin seeds are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. They support sustained energy and provide essential nutrients.
Milk and Dairy Products: Items like milk, yoghurt and paneer are good for protein and calcium intake. They help in sustaining energy and preventing dehydration.
Potatoes: Boiled or lightly spiced potatoes are commonly consumed during the fast. They are a good source of carbohydrates and help keep you full longer.
Sabudana: Tapioca pearls, used in dishes like sabudana khichdi or vada, are popular during fasting. They are easy on the stomach and provide a significant energy boost.
Herbal Teas: Herbal teas, such as mint or chamomile, can be enjoyed if consumed without added sugar or milk. They aid in hydration and support digestion.
Foods To Eat On Hartalika Teej (Image Credits: Canva)
Hartalika Teej Fasting Rules: Foods To Avoid
Cereals and Grains: Common cereals and grains like rice, wheat and pulses are generally avoided. They are considered too heavy and can disrupt the fasting purity.
Spices and Condiments: Strong spices, such as garlic, onion and chilli, are not used in fasting foods. These can interfere with maintaining a balanced fasting experience.
Non-Vegetarian Foods: Meat, fish, and eggs are completely avoided during this period as they are not appropriate for fasting. The focus remains on vegetarian foods that are gentle on the digestive system.
Processed Foods: Packaged snacks, chips and processed items are avoided due to their high salt and sugar content. They can cause dehydration and disrupt the fasting process.
Oily And Fried Foods: Fried and excessively oily foods are not recommended. They are heavy on the digestive system and counterproductive to the goals of fasting.
Following these dietary guidelines ensures that the Hartalika Teej fast is both spiritually enriching and physically manageable. By making mindful food choices, devotees can uphold the festival's sanctity while supporting their overall well-being during the fasting period.
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