New Delhi: The birth anniversary of Lord Shri Krishna will be celebrated on Friday, 4th September this year. On the day of Janmashtami, devotees also observe a fast along with worshiping Lord Krishna. According to religious belief, a fast observed with devotion and rules is considered a means of getting the blessings of Lord Krishna. If you too are going to keep fast on Janmashtami this time, then know the complete method of fasting and important rules related to food.
Start preparations from Saptami itself
It is said that the tradition of following the rules of Janmashtami fast starts from Saptami Tithi. From this day one should stay away from Tamasic food. Garlic-onion, non-vegetarian food and alcohol should not be consumed. Keep food healthy and follow restraint.
Keep fast like this on the day of Janmashtami
On the day of Janmashtami, wake up early in the morning, take bath and wear clean clothes. After this, take a resolution to fast while meditating on Lord Krishna. Clean the worship place and install the idol or picture of Bal Gopal.
People observing fast can keep a fruit or waterless fast as per their capacity and tradition. In fruit diet, fruits, milk and other satvik fasting items can be taken throughout the day. In Nirjala fast, both water and food are abandoned till Parana.
Remember Lord Krishna and chant his mantras throughout the day. Take bath again in the evening and prepare for puja. At the time of Krishna's birth at midnight, there is a tradition of offering Arghya to the moon after worshiping the Lord, offering Aarti and offering food. After this the fast is broken.
What to eat during fast?
Fruits like banana, apple, pomegranate can be taken in the fruit diet of Janmashtami. Apart from this, many people also eat dishes made from milk, curd, sago and buckwheat flour. Rock salt is used instead of normal salt.
Keep distance from these things
There is a religious tradition of avoiding eating food during the fast. One should completely stay away from garlic, onion, non-vegetarian food and alcohol. In some traditions, some vegetables like radish, brinjal, gourd, carrot and beetroot are also avoided on Janmashtami.
Note: Fasting traditions may differ according to family and region. Before observing Nirjala fast, definitely take care of your health and capacity.