Sharad Navratri, also known as Maha Navratri, is a vibrant and auspicious Hindu festival celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm across India and among the global Indian diaspora. This nine-night festival, which typically falls in the Hindu calendar month of Ashwin (usually in September or October), is a celebration of the divine feminine energy, personified by the goddess Durga. Sharad Navratri is a time of fasting, prayer, dance, and vibrant festivities that bring people together to honour the goddess and seek her blessings.
Sharad Navratri's origins are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that during these nine nights, the goddess Durga, an embodiment of the divine feminine power, defeated the demon Mahishasura after a fierce battle. This victory symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and Navratri serves as a reminder of the enduring power of righteousness and the importance of inner strength.
Many devotees observe fasts during Sharad Navratri as a form of spiritual cleansing. They abstain from consuming grains, certain vegetables, and alcohol and instead opt for a diet of fruits, nuts, and dairy products. This dietary discipline is not only a religious practice but also a means of purifying the body and mind. Devotees observe the Sattvik diet, which means that the diet primarily consists of natural, unprocessed, and vegetarian foods, with a strong emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and dairy products. It avoids foods that are excessively spicy, overly processed, or rich in stimulants like caffeine or alcohol. The Sattvik diet is not just about physical health; it's also believed to have a positive impact on one's mental and spiritual well-being.
Apart from vrat foods, people indulge in delicious Navratri drinks. Beyond the regular sips of water, milk, and fruit juices, you can try out different nutritious, healthy drinks this Navratri. Take a look at some of the Navratri drinks:
- Sabudana Thandai
Sabudana Thandai is a delightful and refreshing Indian beverage that combines the nutty goodness of sabudana (tapioca pearls) with the rich and aromatic flavours of thandai. It is made by soaking sabudana, blending it with thandai masala, milk, sugar, and a touch of saffron, and garnishing with crushed nuts.
- Coconut Date Smoothie
A coconut-date smoothie is a luscious and nutritious blend that combines the tropical essence of coconut with the natural sweetness of dates. This smoothie is not only a delightful treat for the taste buds but also a wholesome choice for a quick and energising snack. To prepare, ripe dates are pitted and blended with coconut milk or coconut water, creating a creamy base. The result is a rich, velvety concoction that is naturally sweet and packed with essential nutrients. This smoothie offers a burst of energy and is a fantastic source of healthy fats, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Minty Cucumber Cooler
This thirst-quenching drink combines the crispness of cucumber with the invigorating flavour of fresh mint leaves, resulting in a cool and rejuvenating elixir. To make it, cucumber slices and mint leaves are muddled together and mixed with cold water, perhaps a splash of lime juice, and a touch of sweetness from honey or sugar. The resulting concoction offers a delightful balance of flavours, with the cucumber providing a hydrating and soothing effect while the mint lends a burst of freshness.
- Aloe Vera Detox Drink
Aloe vera, known for its soothing and medicinal qualities, is mixed with water or other healthy base liquids like coconut water or citrus juices. Often, it's combined with ingredients like lemon, ginger, or honey to enhance the flavour and detoxifying effects. This drink is celebrated for its ability to aid digestion, flush out toxins, and boost the immune system. Aloe vera's high content of antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids not only contributes to detoxification but also promotes overall well-being.
- Ginger Lemonade With Rock Salt
This beverage is a refreshing twist on the classic lemonade, enriched with the goodness of green herbs like mint or cilantro. To prepare it, lemon juice is blended with a handful of these green herbs, along with a pinch of mineral-rich rock salt, and then diluted with cold water. The result is a crisp and rejuvenating concoction that is not only incredibly thirst-quenching but also serves as a natural electrolyte replenisher.
- Banana Almond Shake
To create this delectable shake, ripe bananas are blended with a handful of almonds, milk, and often a touch of honey or a sweetener of choice. The result is a velvety, satisfying concoction that boasts a delightful balance of flavours and textures. The almonds contribute a nutty richness, packing in essential healthy fats and protein, while the bananas offer a creamy sweetness that's packed with potassium and natural sugars.