During Janmashtami fasting, devotees typically avoid grains, pulses, rice, regular salt, onions, garlic, meat, and eggs. Instead, they consume specific foods that are light, nutritious, and in line with traditional fasting rules.
What to Eat During Janmashtami Fast
- Fruits: Bananas, apples, pomegranates, melons, and other seasonal fruits provide natural sugars and hydration, keeping energy levels up throughout the day
- Milk and Dairy: Milk, curd (yogurt), buttermilk, and paneer are favored for their protein and calcium content. They are also considered Lord Krishna’s favorite foods
- Flours Allowed: Buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta), amaranth flour (rajgira ka atta), and water chestnut flour (singhare ka atta) are commonly used to make fasting-friendly rotis, puris, and snacks
- Vegetables: Non-grain vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and bottle gourd are suitable. They can be boiled or lightly sautéed with rock salt and minimal spices
- Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls): Used in dishes like sabudana khichdi, it is a good source of carbohydrates and energy
- Makhana (Fox Nuts): Low in calories and high in protein and fiber, roasted makhana is a popular fasting snack
- Dry Fruits and Nuts: Almonds, cashews, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and energy to sustain the fast
- Rock Salt (Sendha Namak): Used instead of regular salt for seasoning fasting dishes
Foods to Avoid
- Grains like wheat, rice, barley, maize
- Pulses such as lentils, peas, beans
- Regular table salt
- Onions and garlic
- Meat and eggs
- Fried and oily snacks (prefer baked or roasted alternatives)
Examples of Popular Fasting Foods
- Sabudana Khichdi
- Rajgira Puri with Farali Aloo Sabzi
- Baked Kuttu Pakoras
- Amaranth (Rajgira) Tikki
- Cucumber Raita with Greek Yogurt
- Dry fruit ladoos made with dates and nuts
This diet helps maintain energy and nutrition while honoring the spiritual significance of the fast during Janmashtami
