Can we eat singhara atta in Monday fast?

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

According to ancient texts, a fast is not a diet but a detoxification process for the body and mind. Observing a Monday fast, particularly during Sawan, involves specific dietary restrictions, often leading people to question if non-grain flours like singhara atta are allowed. The good news is that water chestnut flour is considered a fasting-friendly food, suitable for consumption on Monday fasts.

Quick Summary

This article explores the dietary guidelines for Hindu Monday fasts, confirming that water chestnut flour, or singhara atta, is allowed. It discusses the reasoning behind this, its nutritional benefits, popular fasting recipes, and distinguishes it from other fasting-compliant flours.

Key Points

Permitted in Fasts: Singhara atta is considered a fruit derivative, not a grain, making it acceptable for Hindu fasts like the Monday fast.
Nutrient-Rich: It is a good source of energy, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and zinc, which are crucial during a fasting period.
Versatile Ingredient: The flour can be used to create a variety of fasting-friendly dishes, both sweet and savory, from puris and pakodas to halwa.
Aids Digestion: The high fiber content helps in digestion and provides a feeling of fullness, which is beneficial when consuming a limited diet.
Weight Management: Its fiber-rich nature also helps with weight management by preventing overeating.
Balances Electrolytes: With high potassium and low sodium, it helps balance the body's fluids and prevents water retention.

The Logic Behind Consuming Singhara Atta During Fasts

When observing a religious fast, such as the Monday fast dedicated to Lord Shiva, devotees adhere to specific dietary restrictions. A core principle of many Hindu fasts is the avoidance of anna (cereal grains) and certain pulses. This is where singhara atta, or water chestnut flour, becomes a suitable and popular choice.

Unlike wheat flour (atta) which is a cereal grain, singhara atta is derived from the water chestnut fruit, a water-growing plant. This botanical distinction makes it acceptable for consumption, as it does not fall under the category of forbidden grains. The flour is considered 'falahari,' or part of a fruit-based diet, which is permissible during fasts. This allows devotees to have a filling and nutritious meal without breaking their religious vows.

Nutritional Benefits of Singhara Atta for Fasting

Consuming singhara atta during a fast offers several nutritional advantages that help sustain energy levels and support the body. Fasting can sometimes lead to lethargy due to a change in diet, but water chestnut flour provides a good source of energy and essential nutrients.

Energy Booster: Water chestnuts are packed with complex carbohydrates and vital nutrients like iron, calcium, and zinc. This helps to prevent a significant drop in energy levels, keeping you active throughout the day.
Rich in Fiber: The high fiber content of singhara atta aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. This is particularly useful during a fast, as it helps curb hunger pangs and prevents overeating later.
Rich in Potassium, Low in Sodium: With its high potassium and low sodium content, singhara atta helps maintain the body's electrolyte balance and prevents water retention, which can be a concern during limited dietary intake.

Popular Singhara Atta Recipes for a Monday Fast

Singhara atta is incredibly versatile and can be used to prepare a variety of delicious and satisfying meals that are compliant with fasting rules. These recipes ensure that fasting devotees can enjoy flavorful food while adhering to tradition. Some common dishes include:

Singhare Atte ki Puri: Fried flatbreads made from water chestnut flour, often served with a potato curry (aloo sabzi) prepared with fasting-friendly spices.
Singhare Atte ka Halwa: A sweet dessert made by roasting singhara atta in ghee and then cooking it with jaggery or sugar, and garnishing with dry fruits.
Singhare Atte ke Pakode: Fritters made by dipping sliced vegetables like potatoes or paneer in a batter of singhara atta and rock salt, then deep-frying them.
Singhare Atte ki Cheela: Savory pancakes made from a thin batter of the flour mixed with spices and fresh coriander leaves.

Comparison: Singhara Atta vs. Other Fasting Flours

When observing a fast, several flours are considered acceptable alternatives to wheat. Here is a comparison between singhara atta and other popular fasting flours like kuttu atta (buckwheat flour) and rajgira atta (amaranth flour).


Feature	Singhara Atta (Water Chestnut)	Kuttu Atta (Buckwheat)	Rajgira Atta (Amaranth)
Origin	Derived from the water chestnut fruit.	Derived from the seeds of the buckwheat plant.	Derived from the seeds of the amaranth plant.
Properties	Considered to have a cooling effect on the body.	Known for its warming properties, ideal for cooler weather.	High in protein and iron, known for providing strength.
Texture	Smooth and starchy, good for binding ingredients.	Heavier and slightly coarser, adds a nutty flavor.	Light and grainy, suitable for flatbreads and snacks.
Key Benefit	High in fiber, promotes digestion, and prevents water retention.	High in protein and fiber, excellent for weight management.	Nutrient-dense, rich in minerals and easy to digest.
Suitability	Versatile for both sweet and savory dishes, light on the stomach.	Very filling, good for those with a big appetite during fasts.	Great for making rotis, parathas, and other gluten-free items.

Final Verdict: Can we eat singhara atta in Monday fast?

Yes, you can confidently eat singhara atta during a Monday fast, especially the traditional Sawan Somwar vrat. It is recognized as a permissible food item because it is a fruit derivative and not a cereal grain. Its nutritional profile, including fiber, minerals, and carbohydrates, makes it an excellent choice for maintaining energy levels and feeling full during a fast. By using rock salt (sendha namak) and avoiding prohibited spices like onion and garlic, you can prepare a wide array of delicious, fast-compliant dishes.

Conclusion

Observing a Monday fast is a devotional practice that can be sustained with the right dietary choices. Singhara atta, a versatile and nutritious water chestnut flour, is a perfect fit for this purpose, providing energy and flavor while adhering to religious norms. From savory puris to sweet halwa, it can form the basis of a satisfying meal, making the fast a less challenging and more spiritually fulfilling experience. By understanding the 'why' behind the dietary rules, you can make informed choices that honor tradition while nourishing your body. For more information on fasting traditions, you can visit informative sites like NeuAstro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Singhara atta is allowed during Hindu fasts because it is made from the water chestnut, which is a fruit that grows in water, and not a cereal grain like wheat or rice. Fasting rules often restrict cereal grains, but permit fruits and non-grain flours.

No, during most Hindu fasts, including Monday fasts, regular iodized salt is avoided. You should use rock salt (sendha namak) instead, which is considered purer and is permissible.

You can use a variety of spices, such as black pepper, cumin, coriander, and green chillies. However, you should avoid spices like turmeric, asafoetida (hing), and red chili powder.

Yes, singhara atta is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Yes, it can be used to make unleavened flatbreads like puris or rotis that are suitable for fasting. It is often combined with mashed potatoes to improve the binding properties of the dough.

While generally safe, excessive consumption of singhara might cause stomach discomfort like bloating or gas in some people due to its high fiber content. It's best to consume it in moderation.

Both are excellent choices, but they have different properties. Singhara atta has a cooling effect, while kuttu atta provides warmth. The choice depends on your personal preference and what your body needs.