A Monday fast, known as Somvar Vrat in the Hindu tradition, is a disciplined practice observed primarily in reverence to Lord Shiva. The fast is not merely about abstaining from food, but a holistic process of purifying the body and mind, which is why the diet followed on this day is of paramount importance. The dietary guidelines revolve around consuming sattvic food—pure, wholesome, and light items—while strictly avoiding tamasic (dulling) and rajasic (stimulating) foods. By adhering to these principles, devotees seek to calm the mind, enhance spiritual clarity, and deepen their connection with the divine.
The Core Principles of the Monday Fast Diet
At its heart, the Somvar Vrat diet is about simplifying consumption to promote a calm and meditative state. Foods are classified into three types in Ayurveda: sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic. Fasting on Mondays emphasizes the consumption of sattvic foods, which are considered pure and light, to align with the lunar energy of the day (Monday is Somvar, derived from Som, meaning Moon). Rajasic and tamasic foods, such as garlic, onion, and meat, are believed to disrupt this mental and emotional balance, and are therefore strictly forbidden. The emphasis is on natural, fresh ingredients over processed ones, which can cause lethargy and impurity.
Grains, Pulses, and Common Flours
One of the most significant dietary exclusions during a Monday fast is the avoidance of grains and pulses. This is rooted in tradition and the spiritual desire for a simpler diet. The following are typically avoided:
- Wheat
- Rice
- Lentils (dal)
- Pulses (beans, chickpeas, peas)
Instead of these, devotees use specific flours and starches that are permitted during fasts:
- Kuttu ka atta (Buckwheat flour): Used to make rotis and pakoras.
- Singhare ka atta (Water chestnut flour): Another grain-free flour for flatbreads.
- Rajgira ka atta (Amaranth flour): A nutrient-rich alternative.
- Sabudana (Tapioca pearls): A staple ingredient for khichdi or vadas.
- Samak rice (Barnyard millet): A permissible alternative to regular rice.
Onions, Garlic, and Potent Spices
Even though they are vegetarian, onions and garlic are strictly avoided during the Monday fast because of their tamasic and rajasic nature. Their pungent, stimulating properties are believed to agitate the mind and body, pulling the focus away from spiritual devotion. Additionally, some traditions advise against certain heating spices and herbs, including:
- Asafoetida (hing)
- Turmeric (haldi), in some traditions
- Red chilli powder
- Fenugreek (methi)
Permissible spices typically include fresh and dried ginger, cumin, black pepper, and green chilies, which offer flavor without disturbing spiritual balance.
Regular Salt and Rock Salt
Regular table salt is considered processed and impure for fasting rituals. A crucial dietary change for the Monday fast is to replace it with sendha namak, or rock salt. This type of salt is considered pure and unprocessed, making it acceptable for use in fasting foods. It is used in all preparations, from fruits to potato-based dishes.
Non-Vegetarian Foods, Alcohol, and Eggs
All forms of non-vegetarian food, including meat, eggs, and fish, are completely prohibited during the Monday fast. Similarly, the consumption of alcohol and other intoxicants is forbidden. These substances are considered to have a tamasic nature that is detrimental to the fast's purpose of purity and inner reflection.
Processed and Packaged Foods
To maintain the sanctity and purity of the fast, processed and packaged foods should be avoided. This includes pre-made snacks, instant noodles, chips, and store-bought juices, which often contain preservatives, additives, and prohibited ingredients. The emphasis is on fresh, home-cooked food prepared with pure intentions and proper ingredients.
Heavy and Oily Preparations
Even with permitted ingredients, the cooking method matters. Deep-fried, oily, and heavy foods are discouraged as they can cause digestive discomfort and lethargy, contradicting the fast's goal of light, easily digestible nourishment. Instead, focus on simpler cooking methods like boiling, baking, or light sautéing with pure ghee.
Comparing What to Avoid and What to Eat
| Category | Foods to Avoid | Foods to Eat (Sattvic) |
|---|---|---|
| Grains | Wheat, rice, lentils, pulses | Kuttu, singhara, rajgira, sabudana, samak rice |
| Aromatics | Onion, garlic, fenugreek | Ginger, green chilli, cumin |
| Salt | Regular table salt (iodized) | Sendha namak (rock salt) |
| Spices | Red chilli powder, asafoetida, turmeric (some traditions) | Black pepper, cumin |
| Protein | Meat, eggs, fish | Milk and milk products (paneer, curd) |
| Beverages | Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, packaged juices | Coconut water, milk, buttermilk, herbal tea |
| Cooking Oil | Refined oils, excessive oil | Pure ghee or peanut oil |
Conclusion
Understanding what to avoid on a Monday fast is a key part of observing the Somvar Vrat with sincere devotion. By eliminating tamasic and rajasic foods like grains, onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian items, devotees can create a sattvic dietary and mental environment that is conducive to spiritual reflection and purification. The focus shifts from the mundane to the divine, allowing for a deeper connection with Lord Shiva and a path toward inner peace and clarity. This disciplined approach to nutrition diet during fasting serves both spiritual and physical well-being.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid Grains and Pulses: Replace wheat, rice, and lentils with fasting-friendly options like kuttu and sabudana flour.
- No Onions or Garlic: These tamasic ingredients are believed to disturb spiritual balance.
- Use Rock Salt Only: Processed regular salt is replaced with pure sendha namak.
- Abstain from Non-Vegetarian Food: Meat, eggs, and alcohol are strictly prohibited during the fast.
- Say No to Processed Snacks: Avoid packaged foods, juices, and caffeine to maintain purity.
- Embrace Sattvic Foods: Focus on fruits, dairy products, nuts, and specific flours that promote a calm state of mind.
- Cook Simply: Avoid heavy, oily, and spicy preparations to keep the meal light and digestible.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or buttermilk throughout the day.
FAQs
What specific vegetables should be avoided during a Monday fast?
Some traditions avoid certain vegetables like tomatoes, eggplants, and leafy greens during the fast, opting for root vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes instead.
Can I drink tea or coffee during a Somvar Vrat?
It is generally recommended to avoid caffeinated beverages like regular tea and coffee during a Monday fast. Herbal teas or simple drinks like coconut water and lemon water are preferred alternatives.
Why is regular salt not allowed, and what is sendha namak?
Regular table salt is processed and may contain additives, making it unsuitable for fasting rituals. Sendha namak, or rock salt, is considered a purer, unprocessed form of salt that is acceptable for consumption during the fast.
Is it permissible to eat sugar during a Monday fast?
While some traditions might avoid sugar, it is generally permissible. However, consuming excessive amounts is not encouraged. Natural sweeteners or moderate sugar usage in milk-based dishes like kheer is common.
Can I have dairy products on a Monday fast?
Yes, dairy products are a significant part of the permitted diet for a Monday fast. Milk, curd, paneer, and buttermilk are considered sattvic and are frequently consumed.
What is the reasoning behind avoiding onions and garlic?
Onions and garlic are classified as tamasic and rajasic foods in Ayurveda. They are believed to generate heat and lead to lethargy or restlessness, which can disturb the mental clarity and peace sought during the fast.
What are some easy, fasting-friendly food items I can prepare?
Simple and sattvic dishes include sabudana khichdi, kuttu or singhara atta rotis, boiled potatoes or sweet potatoes, fruit chaat, and makhana (fox nuts) kheer.
