Chaitra Navratri 2026: Confused about fasting during Navratri, all 9 days or the first and last? what is the right thing to do

Chaitra Navratri 2026: From March 19 chaitra navratri is about to begin. During these nine days, nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped and devotees express their devotion by observing a fast. The time of Navratri is considered very special for spiritual practice and devotion, hence many people also prepare to keep fast during these days.

But like every year, this time also a question arises in the minds of many people that is it necessary to keep fast for full 9 days or is it considered right to keep fast only on the first and last day? If you are also confused about this matter, then there are some special rules related to this in religion, which are important to know.

Is it necessary to fast for all 9 days?

According to religious beliefs, if a person can keep fast for full 9 days, then it is considered the best. By observing fast for nine days, the mind, body and soul are purified and one gets the special blessings of Mother Durga. However, it is not necessary that everyone can fast for the entire nine days.

Why is the first and last fast special?

If a person is not able to keep fast for all 9 days, then he can keep fast on the first (Pratipada) and last (Ashtami) day. This is also considered religiously complete. On the first day, the fast begins with Ghat Sthapana, while on the last day the fast is concluded with Kanya Puja and Havan. Therefore both these days are considered to have special importance.

What do religious rules say?

According to religious scriptures, the purpose of fasting is devotion and reverence. If a person observes the fast with a true heart, then whether he observes the fast for one day or for the entire nine days, both are considered acceptable. Apart from this, some people also observe fast only on Ashtami or Navami and worship Kanya, which is also considered auspicious.

Who should observe which fast?

• People who are physically capable can keep the fast for the full 9 days.
• Those who are working or busy can observe fast on the first and last day.
• Elderly or people with health problems can observe the fast as per their convenience
• There is no strict rule for observing fast during Navratri. The most important thing is your faith and intention. Whether you fast for the entire 9 days or just the first and last days, Maa Durga accepts the worship done with a true heart.