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Thursday fasts, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, involve light meals, fruits, and a strict no-onion-and-garlic rule. Here are the key dos and don’ts to follow for a mindful vrat
On Thursday, devotees observe a fast and worship both Lord Vishnu and the banana tree. (AI Generated)
In Hinduism, each day of the week is associated with a specific deity, and Thursday is considered especially auspicious as it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On this day, devotees observe a fast and worship both Lord Vishnu and the banana tree. It is believed that sincere prayers on Thursdays help overcome difficulties and bring peace and prosperity into one’s life.
However, fasting isn’t just about religious rituals; observing the right food practices is equally important. If you are planning to observe a Thursday fast for the first time, here are some key dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
What To Eat During A Thursday Fast
- It’s best to keep meals light, simple, and nourishing during the fast. Fruits and naturally cooling foods are preferred to help the body stay energised and hydrated throughout the day.
- Dairy products like milk, curd, cheese, and butter are allowed as they help maintain strength and prevent fatigue.
- Instead of wheat flour, use buckwheat flour, water chestnut flour, arrowroot, rajgira, or sama rice.
- Eat fresh fruits such as oranges, papaya, grapes, watermelon, and melon to stay hydrated and refreshed.
- Choose light vegetables like sweet potato, carrot, cucumber, and tomato.
- For a boost of energy, you can eat dry fruits including almonds, cashews, walnuts, dates, and peanuts.
- Prepare fasting meals using rock salt, cumin, whole spices, jaggery, dry mango powder, and red chilli.
- For cooking oil, use groundnut oil, ghee, or sunflower oil.
What Not To Eat During The Fast
Certain ingredients and food habits must be strictly avoided to maintain the sanctity of the Thursday fast:
- Avoid onion and garlic, as they are considered impure for fasting rituals.
- Do not consume grains such as wheat flour, gram flour, refined flour (maida), semolina, or regular rice.
- Use only rock salt (sendha namak) instead of regular table salt.
- Refrain from drinking tea, coffee, or fizzy drinks, especially if you are on a fruit-only fast.
- Strictly avoid alcohol, cigarettes, or any form of intoxicants.
Worship Rituals To Follow
Worship the banana tree and offer bananas to Lord Vishnu, but do not consume them yourself. Use yellow flowers, wear yellow clothes, and offer yellow sweets, as these are dear to Lord Vishnu. Maintain a peaceful and pure mind throughout the day and chant the name of the deity.
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