Can We Eat Dry Fruits in Santoshi Mata Vrat?

Devotees observing the Santoshi Mata Vrat on Fridays must strictly follow certain dietary rules. The primary rule is avoiding sour foods, a restriction that even extends to some dry fruits. So, can we eat dry fruits in Santoshi Mata Vrat? The answer is yes, with specific exceptions.

Quick Summary

This guide details which dry fruits are permissible during the Santoshi Mata Vrat and which should be avoided due to the strict prohibition of sour items. It outlines the specific dry fruits allowed and those that are forbidden, offering clear guidelines to help devotees observe their fast correctly. The nutritional benefits of permitted dry fruits are also covered, along with proper consumption methods.

Key Points

• Dry Fruits are Allowed: Most dry fruits, except for those considered sour, are permissible and provide good energy during the fast.

• Avoid Sour Items: The central rule of Santoshi Mata Vrat is to abstain from anything sour, including certain dry fruits like raisins and possibly pistachios.

• Permissible Options: Good dry fruit choices include almonds, cashews, dates, walnuts, and dried figs, which offer excellent nutritional support.

• Best Consumption Method: Soaking dry fruits like almonds can improve digestion and make them a more effective energy source.

• Follow Tradition: Always check if specific dry fruits like raisins or pistachios are part of your family's or tradition's forbidden foods list.

• Use in Moderation: While nutritious, dry fruits are calorie-dense, so it is best to consume them in moderate quantities during the fast.

The Santoshi Mata Vrat, performed over 16 consecutive Fridays, is a deeply revered fast in Hinduism. The core principle of the fast revolves around purity and sacrifice, with a central dietary restriction: the complete avoidance of all things sour. This rule is crucial for pleasing the Goddess of Contentment and securing her blessings. The question of whether dry fruits can be eaten during this vrat is therefore contingent on their sourness.

Permitted Dry Fruits During the Vrat

Most dry fruits are indeed allowed and are an excellent source of energy for those fasting. They are considered sattvic, or pure, and help maintain stamina throughout the day. Here are some of the dry fruits devotees can safely consume:

• Almonds (Badam): A great source of protein and healthy fats, almonds provide sustained energy. Soaking them overnight makes them easier to digest.
• Cashews (Kaju): These creamy nuts are rich in healthy fats and magnesium, offering a quick energy boost.
• Dates (Khajoor): Packed with natural sugars and fiber, dates are ideal for satisfying sweet cravings and providing instant energy.
• Dried Figs (Anjeer): Known for their digestive benefits and high fiber content, dried figs help regulate digestion during the fast.
• Walnuts (Akhrot): A source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, walnuts support brain function and combat fatigue.
• Makhana (Fox Nuts): These light and crunchy seeds can be roasted in a little ghee and sendha namak for a savory, low-calorie snack.

Forbidden Dry Fruits for Santoshi Mata Vrat

The prohibition on sour items extends to dried fruits that have a tangy flavor. Devotees must be vigilant and ensure these are not consumed at all on the fasting day. The most commonly cited forbidden dry fruits are:

• Raisins (Kishmish): Despite being a common fasting food in many other Hindu fasts, raisins are explicitly forbidden during the Santoshi Mata Vrat because they are made from grapes, which can be perceived as sour.
• Pistachios (Pista): Some interpretations and traditions also include pistachios on the forbidden list, so it is best to avoid them to be safe.
• Dried Apricots: While generally sweet, some variations can have a tangy taste. Given the strict rule, it is advisable to avoid these as well, unless you are certain they are not sour.

Comparison of Dry Fruits in Santoshi Mata Vrat

Feature	Allowed Dry Fruits (e.g., Almonds, Dates)	Forbidden Dry Fruits (Raisins, Pistachios)
Sourcing	Readily available and generally safe to consume.	Can contain or be perceived as having sourness.
Nutrient Profile	High in protein, fiber, healthy fats, and minerals.	Similar nutrient profile, but their sour element makes them unsuitable.
Vrat Compliance	Fully compliant, as they are not sour.	Explicitly non-compliant due to potential sourness.
Energy Source	Provides sustained energy throughout the day.	Would also provide energy, but are restricted by the specific rules.
Spiritual Rule	Aligns with the sattvic and pure nature of the fast.	Violates the core principle of avoiding all things sour.

Tips for Consuming Permitted Dry Fruits

To best incorporate dry fruits into your Santoshi Mata Vrat, consider these suggestions:

• Soak your almonds overnight to soften them and enhance nutrient absorption.
• Create a mix of allowed dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and dates for a quick, energizing snack.
• Add chopped nuts to fruits like bananas or to fasting-approved milk for added texture and nutrition.
• Moderation is key. Although nutritious, dry fruits are calorie-dense. A small handful is sufficient to provide energy without being overly filling.
• Always ensure your dry fruits are fresh, unsweetened, and unsalted to maintain the purity of your fast.

Conclusion: Navigating the Vrat with Dry Fruits

For devotees asking can we eat dry fruits in Santoshi Mata Vrat, the answer is a qualified yes. Most non-sour dry fruits like almonds, cashews, dates, and figs are completely permissible and highly recommended for providing energy and sustenance during the fast. However, the strict prohibition on sour foods means that raisins and, according to some traditions, pistachios must be avoided. By selecting your dry fruits carefully, you can observe the vrat devoutly while keeping your body nourished and your mind focused on your spiritual practice. The key lies in understanding and respecting the specific tradition of avoiding all things sour to ensure the fast is performed correctly and pleases Maa Santoshi.

Sources:

1. Times of India: All about Maa Santoshi and ‘Shukravar vrat’ dedicated to her.
2. Maheronline: Santoshi Mata.
3. Hathi Masala: Navratri 2025: List of Dry Fruits You Can Eat in Fasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all dry fruits forbidden during Santoshi Mata Vrat?

No, not all dry fruits are forbidden. Only those that are sour or derived from sour fruit, such as raisins, must be avoided. Other non-sour varieties like almonds, cashews, and dates are generally allowed.

Why are raisins not allowed in Santoshi Mata Vrat?

Raisins are not allowed because they are made from dried grapes, and grapes can be considered sour. The fundamental rule of the Santoshi Mata fast is to completely avoid all sour items.

Can I eat almonds and cashews during the fast?

Yes, almonds (badam) and cashews (kaju) are generally considered acceptable during the Santoshi Mata Vrat. They are not sour and provide a good source of energy and nutrients.

Is it okay to eat dates and dried figs?

Yes, dates (khajoor) and dried figs (anjeer) are permitted. They are naturally sweet and are excellent sources of energy and fiber for sustaining you throughout the fasting day.

Can I have pistachios (pista) during the fast?

Some traditions specifically exclude pistachios, along with raisins, from the Santoshi Mata Vrat diet. It is safest to avoid them to adhere strictly to the rules of avoiding sourness.

Can I use dry fruits in fasting recipes?

Yes, you can use allowed dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and dates in fasting recipes, such as adding them to milk, kheer, or making simple energy bars. Just ensure all other ingredients are also vrat-friendly.

What is the primary rule for the Santoshi Mata fast regarding food?

The primary and most important dietary rule for the Santoshi Mata Vrat is to avoid anything sour, including food items like yogurt, pickles, and certain fruits, to please the goddess.