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The month of Sawan in any given year is considered auspicious, but in 2023, a rare occurrence has happened. In the Hindu lunar calendar, there are occasions when an extra month, known as Adhik Maas or Purushottam Maas, is inserted to align the lunar and solar calendars. This extra month is inserted to compensate for the discrepancy between the lunar year and the solar year. Sawan Adhik Maas is an additional month that occurs once every few years, and Sawan Purnima falling during this extra month holds special importance for several reasons.
And this is precisely what has happened this year after a gap of 19 years. In 2023, August 1 is being celebrated as Sawan Purnima of the Shukla Paksha in the Sawan Adhik Maas. And while Lord Shiva is usually the focus of Sawan worship, on this auspicious Sawan Purnima Tithi, the moon and Lord Vishnu are in focus. Keeping in tandem with that fact, it is very important to not that if you are keeping a fast on this day, it must be sattvik and offered to the Gods first.
It is very well-known among Hindus, especially worshippers of Lord Vishnu and Chandra Deva, that white is the most auspicious colour for both these deities. In fact, it is a ritual to conduct a Satyanarayan Puja on Sawan Purnima, with the key Prasad being Panchamrit, which is white and symbolizes purity. So, if you are keeping a fast during Sawan Purnima, here are a few sattvik and auspicious ingredients you can add to your vrat diet.
Video Credit: YouTube/Priyanka Kitchen Zone
Sabudana
Sabudana, also known as tapioca pearls, are small, white, and starchy balls derived from the cassava root. A popular fasting food, they become translucent and soft when cooked. Sabudana is used to prepare delicious vrat-friendly dishes like Sabudana Khichdi, a savory and mildly spiced dish, or Sabudana Kheer, a sweet pudding made with milk, sugar, and saffron. It provides energy during the fast and is easy to digest, making it an ideal choice for devotees observing the Sawan Purnima Vrat.
Singhare ka Atta
Singhare ka Atta, or water chestnut flour, is a gluten-free flour made from dried water chestnuts. During Sawan Purnima Vrat, it is extensively used to prepare Singhare ki Poori, a deep-fried, puffed bread, and Singhare ke Atte ka Halwa, a sweet pudding made with ghee, sugar, and water chestnut flour. This flour is light and easy to digest, making it a favored choice during fasting periods, and it adds a unique nutty flavor to the dishes.
Makhana
Makhana, also known as foxnuts or lotus seeds, are light and crunchy snacks favored during fasting periods. These popped seeds come from the lotus flower and are usually roasted with a touch of ghee to enhance their flavor. Rich in protein and low in fat, makhana offers a healthy alternative to regular snacks during Sawan Purnima Vrat. They can also be used to make Makhana Kheer, a creamy and delectable dessert enjoyed on special occasions.
Fruits
Fresh fruits form a vital part of the Sawan Purnima Vrat diet. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars to sustain energy levels during the fasting period. Bananas, rich in potassium, are a popular choice along with apples, watermelon, and grapes. Fruits can be eaten as is or used in fruit salads and smoothies to add variety to the vrat menu. Their refreshing taste helps keep devotees hydrated and nourished during this sacred time.
Dairy Products
Dairy products play a significant role in the Sawan Purnima Vrat menu, providing a good source of protein and calcium. Milk is consumed as is or used to make various dishes like fruit shakes or kheer. Yogurt, or curd, is another essential item, often consumed with sabudana or fruits. Paneer, a soft and fresh cottage cheese, can be used to prepare dishes like Paneer Tikka or Paneer Curry, adding flavor and protein to the fasting diet.
Coconut
Coconut holds immense significance in Hindu rituals and is considered pure and auspicious. During Sawan Purnima Vrat, coconut is used in various forms – grated coconut is added to sweets like coconut ladoo, coconut milk is used to make kheer, and coconut pieces are used to garnish dishes. The natural sweetness and rich texture of coconut add a delightful touch to the vrat dishes, making them more enjoyable and wholesome.
Dry Fruits and Nuts
Dry fruits and nuts are nutritious and filling snacks consumed during Sawan Purnima Vrat. Almonds, cashews, raisins, and pistachios are commonly eaten in their raw form. They can also be used to make dry fruit ladoo or incorporated into dishes like sabudana kheer. These nutrient-rich foods provide sustained energy throughout the day and offer a sense of indulgence during the fasting period.
