Can we drink cold coffee in Somwar fast? A Complete Guide to Vrat Rules

December 4, 2025 •

4 min read

Traditionally, during a strict Somwar fast, many devotees are advised to avoid caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee, a rule often emphasized for Sawan Somwar observances. The question of whether you can we drink cold coffee in Somwar fast is complex and depends heavily on personal belief, family tradition, and the specific form of the fast being observed.

Quick Summary

Drinking cold coffee is generally discouraged during a Somwar fast, particularly if it contains milk and sugar, as it is not considered a sattvic drink. The acceptability of any coffee depends on a devotee's personal interpretation of the fast's rules regarding stimulants and non-fast-friendly ingredients.

Key Points

Generally Avoided: Cold coffee with milk and sugar is not typically permitted during a Somwar fast, as it contains non-sattvic, processed ingredients that contradict traditional vrat rules.
Strict vs. Phalahar Fast: The rules depend on the type of fast. A strict fast prohibits coffee completely, while on a phalahar fast, the ingredients like milk and sugar remain a point of contention and are best avoided.
Stimulants are Discouraged: Traditional fasting practices advise against caffeine, found in coffee, as it is a stimulant that can disrupt mental calmness and potentially cause acidity on an empty stomach.
Milk and Sugar Break the Fast: From a metabolic standpoint, the milk and sugar in cold coffee introduce calories that can trigger an insulin response and technically end the fasting state.
Better Alternatives: Hydrating and energizing alternatives that are perfectly acceptable for Somwar vrat include buttermilk, fresh fruit juices, coconut water, and herbal teas.
Personal Choice and Tradition: While general guidelines exist, the final decision is a personal one, often influenced by individual beliefs and family traditions surrounding the vrat.

Understanding the Sanctity of a Somwar Vrat

A Somwar vrat, or Monday fast, is an important religious practice for devotees of Lord Shiva. The purpose of the fast is to show reverence, seek blessings, and undergo spiritual purification. The focus is on satvik (pure, light) foods and drinks that do not disturb the body or mind. Stimulants and processed items are typically avoided to maintain a state of calm and devotion. A traditional fast emphasizes a mindful approach to consumption, contrasting sharply with the modern-day interpretation of fasting, such as intermittent fasting, where black coffee is often permitted.

The Role of Ingredients in Cold Coffee

The key to determining if cold coffee is acceptable lies in its ingredients, specifically milk and sugar. A typical cold coffee is made with milk, sugar, and sometimes cream or syrup. Both milk and sugar are calorific and, according to strict fasting principles, can be seen as breaking the fast. Many Hindu texts and traditional practices discourage or prohibit the use of processed ingredients and stimulants during a vrat.

On a phalahar fast, which allows for fruits, milk, and certain vegetables, milk is permitted. However, adding milk and sugar specifically to create a rich beverage like cold coffee might be considered too indulgent and therefore against the spirit of the fast. Conversely, a strict nirjala vrat, where no food or water is consumed, would prohibit cold coffee entirely.

Caffeinated Beverages: Traditional Views vs. Modern Lifestyles

Traditional wisdom often advises against stimulants like caffeine during a fast. This is because caffeine can affect mood, heart rate, and lead to acidity, particularly on an empty stomach. The goal of a religious fast is mental clarity and inner peace, which can be disrupted by caffeine's effects. The Times of India, citing Sawan Somwar guidelines, suggests avoiding caffeinated drinks to prevent dehydration. However, in modern times, many individuals depend on coffee for energy and may have different interpretations. Some traditions and individual beliefs have become more flexible over time, though stricter followers remain firm on avoiding such items.

Permitted and Recommended Beverages for Somwar Vrat

For those seeking a refreshing alternative to cold coffee, several options align with traditional fasting rules. These beverages are often considered satvik and help maintain hydration and energy levels naturally. These include:

Buttermilk (Chaach): Made from curd and water, this is a traditional, cooling, and easily digestible drink.
Fresh Fruit Juices: Freshly prepared juices from permitted fruits like banana or pomegranate are excellent choices. Packaged juices, which often contain preservatives and added sugars, should be avoided.
Coconut Water: A natural source of electrolytes and hydration, it is highly recommended during fasts.
Lemon Water: Simple lemon water, with or without a small amount of honey (if permitted), is a hydrating and cleansing option.
Herbal Tea: Certain herbal teas, like those made with cardamom or ginger, can be consumed as an alternative to caffeinated beverages.

A Comparative Look: Cold Coffee vs. Vrat-Friendly Drinks


Feature	Cold Coffee (Milk & Sugar)	Black Coffee (Iced)	Buttermilk / Fresh Juice	Coconut Water
Adherence to Fast	Generally breaks a traditional vrat due to milk and sugar.	Debated; avoided in strict fasts due to caffeine and potential acidity.	Highly acceptable; aligns with sattvic principles.	Highly acceptable; aligns with sattvic principles.
Caloric Content	High due to milk and sugar.	Minimal; essentially calorie-free.	Varies depending on fruit/preparation.	Moderate, with natural sugars.
Effect on Fast	Induces insulin spike, disrupting fasting benefits.	May cause acidity or jitters; less impactful if black.	Aids digestion and provides natural energy.	Excellent for hydration and electrolyte balance.
Spiritual Impact	Seen as an indulgence, potentially breaking the spiritual purpose.	Debated; considered a stimulant, potentially disturbing mental peace.	Calming and pure, promotes focus and spiritual energy.	Promotes purity and offers natural benefits.

Conclusion: Navigating Your Fast Mindfully

While personal and family traditions are important, the traditional view holds that consuming cold coffee, especially with milk and sugar, is not recommended during a Somwar fast. Its non-sattvic nature and status as a stimulant, particularly when prepared in the modern style, are contrary to the spiritual intent of a vrat. For those seeking clarity and sanctity in their observance, opting for traditional, vrat-friendly beverages like buttermilk, fresh juices, or coconut water is the safest and most respectful path. It allows you to honor the fast's purpose while remaining nourished and hydrated. Ultimately, the decision rests with the devotee, but understanding the traditional guidelines is essential for a meaningful fast.

Note: This article provides general information. Please consult with family elders or a spiritual guide for specific guidance tailored to your traditions.

Further reading on traditional Hindu fasting practices: Sawan Somwar: Foods to Eat and Avoid During Fast

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, they are fundamentally different. Intermittent fasting focuses on metabolic effects and weight loss, where plain black coffee is often permitted. Religious fasting, like the Somwar vrat, emphasizes spiritual purity, often leading to avoidance of stimulants like caffeine regardless of calories.

Coffee is often seen as unsuitable for a Somwar fast for several reasons: it's a stimulant (caffeine), which can disrupt a devotee's focus; it can cause acidity on an empty stomach; and when prepared as cold coffee with milk and sugar, it contains ingredients that break the fast's austerity.

The acceptability of black coffee varies by tradition. Some stricter fasts advise against all caffeine, while some devotees might allow it. However, it is generally considered a better option than milk-and-sugar cold coffee.

Instead of cold coffee, you can enjoy vrat-friendly options like fresh coconut water, homemade buttermilk, or fresh fruit juices made from permitted fruits. These are cooling, hydrating, and align with the principles of the fast.

Even natural sweeteners like jaggery would be viewed as an indulgence and add calories, which can break a strict fast. The traditional approach is to keep beverages as simple and pure as possible.

Yes, practices vary widely based on regional and family traditions. Some households may have more lenient rules regarding coffee, while others adhere strictly to avoiding all stimulants and processed foods.

Yes, it is always best to consult with elders in your family or a knowledgeable spiritual guide, especially if you have doubts. This ensures you respect your family's traditions and the spiritual purpose of your fast.