On the fourth day of the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar, married women observe the festival of Karwa Chauth and this year it falls on Thursday, October 13th. The rituals of the day involve a fast called the Nirjala Vrat where women don’t eat or drink anything from sunrise to sunset and only break the fast after the moon rises in the evening. During this day, women pray for the well-being and longevity of their spouses.
There are a few different legends associated with the origin of Karwa Chauth which can be traced back to Karva Devi and Savitri who prayed to Lord Yama, the god of death for the return of their husbands’ souls after they were killed in battle. Another version of events says that Draupadi pleaded with Lord Krishna for Arjun’s safety when he was away on meditation in Nigiri. Lord Krishna advised her to fast as an offering just like Goddess Parvati had done for her husband, Lord Shiva.
The Sargi is a pre-dawn thali that is usually prepared by the woman’s mother-in-law or elder sisters of the family and consumed in a communal style with all the women of the household eating together. It usually consists of five to seven dishes including rotis, vegetable curries, homemade mithais and sweets, dry fruits, nuts and fresh fruits. The Nirjala fast is broken when the woman gazes on and prays to the moon before looking at their husband's face. After that, they are fed a bite of food and water and the Sargi begins.
During the fast, it’s easy to get dehydrated and low on energy, so choosing what to include in your Sargi meal is essential to feeling full and staying healthy through the day. Here are some dishes and drinks to include in order to make it through the day without issues.
Coconut Water or Fresh Lime Juice
Instead of simply guzzling water in the morning try coconut water or nimbu paani instead. It will help detoxify your body and aid your digestion. Also, thanks to the electrolytes in both drinks, you’ll stay hydrated and balanced throughout the day without feeling weak.
Soaked Nuts, Dry Fruits and Seeds
These are a standard part of the Sargi line-up but you can increase the nutritional absorption by soaking the nuts and fruits overnight. Also, adding some flax seeds, chia seeds or sunflower seeds can boost the benefits and give you more energy during the day.
Stuffed Rotis
Fibre is essential in keeping you feeling full while preventing bloating and acidity through the day. Instead of parathas that can be greasy and oily, try stuffing rotis and enjoying them with curd or vegetables for a more hearty meal.
Fresh Fruit
Fruits are a great part of any diet but especially when preparing for a fast, it’s essential to include fruits for dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals, natural sugars and hydration. They’ll keep you feeling full and fresh all day. If you prefer, freshly squeezed juice is also a good choice.
Homemade Mithai
Mithais and sweets made outside tend to have an excess of processed sugars and rich dairy products which can leave you feeling heavy, thirsty and drained. Instead make some kheer, phirni or other light sweet at home that will boost your sucrose and glucose levels and keep you energetic all day.