Durga Puja Fast

People also observe fast during the puja as part of the rituals. The custom of fasting during Durga puja has been followed for centuries with complete sincerity and devotion. There are many devotees who fast during 'Navaratri' (9 days) every year. The fast is observed to please Goddess Durga and to seek her blessings. 

Fasting is the act of refraining from having food and liquids for a period of time. Fasting brings about a spiritual awareness and is recognized as a technique to practice self-control. To please the goddess and to seek blessings from Maa Durga, many people keep fast during Durga puja.  Chanting the 40 verses of the 'Durga Chalisa' and reciting the 108 names of 'Durga Devi', enables the devotee to concentrate and meditate. 

Fasting Rituals During Durga Puja

The devotee must rise early in the morning, bathe, wear new clothes and then offer prayers to 'Durga Mata'. Many ways of fasting are followed during the Durga puja. One tradition, allows the devotees to have only milk and fruits during the entire day. Another tradition allows devotees to have only one meal a day. Young girls or 'Kumarikas' are given food and gifts by those who observe fast, as part of the ritual on the day of Durga puja. Alcohol and non-vegetarian food is forbidden while fasting. Generally, only 8 to 12 hours of fasting is observed during the puja.