Introduction
Navratri is not just about Garba, pandals, and celebrations – it is also a time for spiritual fasting (vrat). Devotees across Mumbai and India follow special Navratri fasting rules while enjoying delicious vrat-friendly recipes. If you are wondering what to eat and avoid during Navratri 2025, this guide is for you.
Navratri 2025 Fasting Dates
- Start Date: Wednesday, 24 September 2025
- End Date: Thursday, 2 October 2025
- Devotees observe fast for 9 days, either full fasting or by eating selective “satvik” foods.
Foods to Avoid During Navratri Fasting
- Onion & garlic
- Non-vegetarian food
- Alcohol & aerated drinks
- Wheat, rice (except Samak rice), and refined flour
- Processed or packaged junk food
Foods Allowed During Navratri Fasting
- Grains/Flours: Singhara atta (water chestnut), Rajgira atta, Kuttu atta (buckwheat)
- Rice Substitute: Samak rice (barnyard millet)
- Vegetables: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, arbi (colocasia)
- Fruits: All fruits allowed
- Dairy: Milk, paneer, curd, ghee
- Dry Fruits: Almonds, cashews, raisins, walnuts
- Spices Allowed: Sendha namak (rock salt), cumin, black pepper
Popular Navratri Fasting Recipes 2025
1. Sabudana Khichdi
- Ingredients: Sabudana (sago), potatoes, peanuts, green chilies
- Why Popular? Light, filling, and perfect vrat meal.
2. Kuttu ki Puri with Aloo Sabzi
- Buckwheat flour puris with potato curry
- A staple during Navratri fasting.
3. Samak Rice Khichdi
- Barnyard millet cooked like rice with curd
- A healthy replacement for regular rice.
4. Sabudana Vada
- Deep-fried sago & potato cutlets
- Crispy snack loved by all age groups.
5. Fruit Salad & Dry Fruit Lassi
- Perfect for keeping energy levels high during fast.
Navratri Special Thalis in Mumbai 2025
Many restaurants in Mumbai serve Navratri Fasting Thalis during the festival:
- Rajdhani Thali Restaurants – Vrat-special menu
- Shreeji Thali, Borivali & Ghatkopar – Fasting-friendly Gujarati food
- Delivery Apps (Zomato/Swiggy) – Special “Vrat Thali” options during Navratri
Health Benefits of Navratri Fasting
- Detoxifies the body
- Improves digestion
- Boosts energy
- Helps in weight management
- Builds discipline & spiritual connection
Navratri 2025 in Mumbai – Dates, Pandals
Tips for Healthy Navratri Fasting
- Stay hydrated with coconut water & lemon water
- Avoid fried vrat foods every day – balance with fruits & curd
- Do not skip meals; small portions help maintain energy
- Use rock salt instead of table salt
- Break the fast with fruits instead of heavy meals
FAQs
Q1. Can we eat rice during Navratri 2025?
Regular rice is not allowed; only Samak rice is consumed.
Q2. Is coffee allowed in Navratri fasting?
Yes, tea & coffee are allowed but in moderation.
Q3. What flour is used for puris during Navratri?
Kuttu atta (buckwheat flour) or Singhara atta (water chestnut flour).
Q4. Can we eat dairy during Navratri?
Yes, milk, paneer, ghee, and curd are permitted.
Q5. Which restaurants serve Navratri thalis in Mumbai?
Rajdhani, Shreeji Thali, and several delivery kitchens on Zomato & Swiggy.
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