Premanand Maharaj on Navratri: These 5 People Should Not Observe the Chaitra Navratri Fast

New Delhi: The month of Chaitra is currently underway, and today marks the 'Pratipada' (first day) 'Tithi'. This specific date holds immense significance in the Hindu faith. Chaitra Navratri commences today. Furthermore, today also marks the Hindu New Year, an occasion also known as 'Nava Samvatsar'. 'Gudi Padwa' is also celebrated on this very day. Additionally, today is particularly special as it marks the second day following 'Chaitra Amavasya'.

What is Chaitra Amavasya?

The tradition of performing ritual baths and acts of charity ('Daan') on this day has been practiced for ages. Speaking of Chaitra Navratri, many devotees observe a fast for the entire nine-day duration. Conversely, the majority of people choose to fast and worship Goddess Durga specifically on the first and eighth days. While anyone is free to observe the Navratri fast, according to Premanand Maharaj, there are five specific categories of men and women who should refrain from doing so. So, let us explore exactly who should *not* observe the Navratri fast.

What did Premanand Maharaj say?

1) Do Not Fast for Show: According to Premanand Maharaj, those who engage in ostentatious devotion—performing acts of piety merely for the sake of appearance—should never observe the Navratri fast. Individuals who are hypocritical and consumed by ego should steer clear of the Navratri fast, as they stand to gain absolutely nothing from it. Premanand Maharaj has stated that "Mata Rani" (the Divine Mother) hungers for sincere sentiment and devotion (*Bhav*), not for food or outward display. If a man or woman observes the Chaitra Navratri fast solely because a neighbor is doing so, or in the hope that others will perceive them as great devotees—thereby boosting their social status—and if they proceed to post photographs on social media in the name of fasting, their actions are misguided.

Furthermore, if individuals use fasting as a mere pretext for dieting or weight loss, there can be no crime more heinous or a mockery more cruel than this. The scriptures classify such behavior as a *Mahapap* (a grave sin). Goddess Durga is the very embodiment of compassion; she chooses to reside only in those homes where the hearts of the inhabitants are filled with pure, unadulterated devotion and absolute surrender. If one's mind remains tainted by worldly impurities and ego, observing a fast for nine days will result in nothing more than physical changes to the body; it will yield absolutely no spiritual merit or *Punya*.

2) People with Impure Thoughts: Regarding men and women who are of loose character, harbor impure thoughts, and constantly seek to harm others, the scriptures state that such individuals—being devoid of moral character—have absolutely no right to observe this sacred fast or to touch the holy flame (Jyoti) of the Mother Goddess. Furthermore, for those who engage in backbiting, rejoice when others' households fall apart, and burn with inner envy upon witnessing the progress of others, their worship invariably goes in vain. When both the mind and body lack purity, and the soul within has effectively died, the worship performed by such individuals can never yield successful results.

3) People Who Use Abusive Language: Those who habitually use profanity, speak harshly, and insult others should also refrain from observing this fast. In the scriptures, a woman is revered as the *Grihalakshmi* (the Goddess of the Home); however, if a woman possesses a foul tongue—thereby causing discord and strife within the household—she, too, has no right to observe this fast. The Mother Goddess does not accept any offering presented by the hands of such individuals.

4) Women in periods: Women should strictly refrain from undertaking the *Chaitra Navratri* fast or making a solemn vow (*Sankalp*) during their menstrual cycle. Furthermore, they should not participate in the ritual of *Kalash Sthapana* (the ceremonial installation of the holy pot). During this period, both the body and one's garments are considered to be in a state of ritual impurity. Consequently, the body's energy state is entirely distinct during this time. However, according to Premanand Maharaj, if a woman has already commenced the fast—and her menstrual cycle begins on the third, fourth, or any subsequent day of Navratri—she should not break her fast.

She may continue observing the fast; she simply must refrain from physically touching any items associated with the worship rituals. It is appropriate for her to remain at a distance and perform mental worship (*Manasik Puja*). Additionally, women who have recently given birth—and whose households are currently observing the *Sutak* period (a period of ritual impurity following a birth)—should also refrain from observing the fast. This is because, during such times, both the body and the home are considered to be in a state of ritual impurity.

5. Others Who Should Not Observe the Fast: According to Premanand Maharaj, individuals suffering from severe illness should also refrain from observing the Navratri fast. In such circumstances, the physical body may not be able to withstand the rigors of fasting, and there is no need to further weaken oneself by undertaking such an austerity. If one remembers the Mother with a sincere heart, she will undoubtedly bestow her blessings. There is no need to subject oneself to such physical hardship for this purpose. Furthermore, pregnant women should also refrain from observing a fast during Chaitra Navratri.