Mahashivratri 2025: Foods You Can Have While Fasting

Maha Shivratri is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed with great devotion and spiritual fervour across India. Devotees observe a day-long fast, engage in prayers, and participate in night-long vigils to seek the blessings of Mahadev. While fasting, many traditional foods can be consumed to maintain energy levels without breaking the sacred vrat. From fruits and milk-based dishes to special fasting-friendly recipes, Maha Shivratri food offers a delicious and nutritious way to observe the fast while staying energized.

It is essential to choose light yet wholesome ingredients that provide sustained energy throughout the day. Keeping hydration in check is also important, as it helps maintain strength and focus during prayers and rituals.

Here is a list of 12 foods you can have while fasting on this auspicious day.

1. Sabudana Khichdi
2. Fruit Salad
3. Vrat Ke Chawal
4. Singhare Atte Ka Halwa
5. Kuttu Ki Puri
6. Makhana (Fox Nuts)
7. Rajgira Roti
8. Dahi Aloo
9. Kaddu ki Kheer
10. Farali Pattice
11. Thandai
12. Dairy Products

• Sabudana Khichdi:
  

Sabudana Khichdi is one of the most popular and nutritious dishes enjoyed during fasting, especially on Maha Shivratri. Made with soaked tapioca pearls, peanuts, and mild spices, this dish is light on the stomach yet packed with energy, making it an ideal Maha Shivratri food. It is not only easy to digest but also provides essential carbohydrates and proteins to keep you energized throughout the day. The combination of ghee, curry leaves, and cumin enhances its flavour while keeping it sattvic and vrat-friendly. Whether eaten as breakfast or a mid-day meal, Sabudana Khichdi is a delicious and fulfilling choice for those observing the fast.

• Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is a light, hydrating, and energy-boosting option for those observing a fast on Maha Shivratri. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars, it helps maintain stamina throughout the day while keeping digestion easy. A mix of fresh fruits like bananas, apples, pomegranates, and papayas provides a perfect balance of nutrition and taste. Often garnished with honey, nuts, or a dash of rock salt, this simple yet wholesome dish is a great Maha Shivratri food to keep you refreshed and energized during the fasting hours.

• Vrat Ke Chawal:
  

Vrat Ke Chawal, also known as Samak Rice or Barnyard Millet, is a popular dish prepared during Hindu fasting festivals like Maha Shivratri. Unlike regular rice, these grains are light, gluten-free, and easy to digest, making them an excellent substitute for a fulfilling meal. Rich in fibre and essential nutrients, Vrat Ke Chawal provides sustained energy while keeping the diet sattvic and vrat-friendly. Whether made into khichdi, pulao, or kheer, this versatile dish is a nourishing choice for those observing the fast.

• Singhare Atte Ka Halwa:
  

Singhare Atte Ka Halwa is a rich and flavourful dessert commonly enjoyed during fasting, especially on Maha Shivratri. Made with water chestnut flour (singhare ka atta), ghee, sugar, and nuts, this halwa is not only vrat-friendly but also packed with energy-giving nutrients. The naturally gluten-free flour gives it a smooth texture, while cardamom and dry fruits enhance its taste. This Shivratri special sweet is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while keeping you energized throughout the fast. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Singhare Atte Ka Halwa is a delightful treat for devotees observing the vrat.

• Dahi Aloo:
   

  

Dahi Aloo is a simple yet flavourful dish enjoyed during fasting, especially on occasions like Maha Shivratri. Made with boiled potatoes simmered in a yogurt-based gravy, this dish is light on the stomach while being rich in energy-boosting carbohydrates and probiotics. The use of vrat-friendly spices like cumin, rock salt, and black pepper enhances its taste while keeping it sattvic and easy to digest. Whether paired with vrat-friendly puris, rotis, or eaten on its own, Dahi Aloo is a comforting and satisfying meal choice for those observing the fast.

• Kuttu Ki Puri:
  

  

Kuttu Ki Puri is a popular vrat-friendly dish prepared during Hindu fasting festivals like Maha Shivratri. Made with buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta), this puri is a nutritious and gluten-free alternative to regular wheat-based puris. The flour is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making it a great choice for maintaining energy levels during fasting. Deep-fried until golden and crispy, Kuttu Ki Puri pairs well with vrat-friendly curries, yogurt, or simply with a side of rock salt-seasoned potatoes. This hearty and delicious dish is a must-have for those observing the sacred fast.

• Makhana(FoxNuts):

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is a highly nutritious and vrat-friendly snack enjoyed during Maha Shivratri fasting. Light, crunchy, and packed with protein, fibber, and essential minerals, makhana helps keep you full and energized throughout the day. It can be roasted with a little ghee and rock salt for a simple, crispy treat or used in recipes like makhana kheer and spiced makhana chaat. As a Shivratri snack, it is not only healthy but also easy to digest, making it a perfect choice for devotees observing the fast.

• Rajgira Paratha
  

  

Rajgira Roti, made from amaranth flour, is a wholesome and gluten-free flatbread commonly consumed during fasting, especially on Maha Shivratri. Rich in protein, fibber, and essential minerals like iron and calcium, this roti provides sustained energy while being light on digestion. Since it is a vrat-friendly grain, it perfectly aligns with the fasting guidelines, making it a great alternative to regular wheat rotis. Usually paired with vrat-friendly curries, yogurt, or chutney, Rajgira Roti is a nourishing and filling Maha Shivratri food that keeps you energized throughout the day

•  Farali Pattice:

Farali Pattice is a delicious and crispy fasting-special snack enjoyed during Maha Shivratri. Made with mashed potatoes and stuffed with a flavourful mixture of grated coconut, nuts, and mild spices, this dish is both satisfying and vrat-friendly. Shallow-fried until golden and crispy, it offers the perfect balance of crunch and softness, making it a popular choice for those observing the fast. Often served with vrat-friendly chutneys like coconut or peanut chutney, this Shivratri snack is a delightful way to enjoy a flavourful treat while maintaining fasting guidelines.

• Thandai:

Thandai is a traditional and flavourful drink that holds special significance during Maha Shivratri. Made with a blend of milk, nuts, seeds, and aromatic spices like saffron, cardamom, and fennel, this cooling beverage is both refreshing and nutrient-rich. It provides instant energy and helps keep the body hydrated throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for fasting devotees. The addition of almonds, poppy seeds, and rose water enhances its taste and nutritional value, making Thandai a perfect Shivratri drink to enjoy while observing the sacred fast

• Dairy Products

Dairy products play a crucial role in Maha Shivratri food, providing essential nutrients and sustained energy to those observing the fast. Rich in protein, calcium, and healthy fats, they help keep the body nourished while maintaining strength throughout the day. Common dairy products consumed during fasting include milk, yogurt (dahi), paneer (cottage cheese), ghee (clarified butter), and butter. These ingredients are not only sattvic and vrat-friendly but also versatile, used in various fasting recipes like kheer, smoothies, lassi, and savoury dishes. Including dairy in your fasting meals ensures a balanced and wholesome diet while observing the sacred vrat.Here are some dairy drinks and dishes you can have as food for the Maha Shivratri fast.

Here are some dairy drinks and dishes you can have as food for the Maha Shivratri fast.

• Dairy Delights for Maha Shivratri Fasting:

• Lassi:

  Lassi, a traditional Indian yogurt-based beverage, is a refreshing and nourishing choice during fasting. It can be enjoyed in different flavours, including sweet, salty, or plain, offering a delicious way to stay hydrated. Packed with probiotics and protein, lassi helps aid digestion and provides long-lasting energy, making it a great drink for Maha Shivratri.

• Grilled Paneer:

  Grilled paneer is a simple yet flavourful dish that is both protein-rich and satisfying. Soft slices of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are marinated in vrat-friendly spices and grilled to perfection, creating a delicious and wholesome meal. Its high protein content keeps you full for longer, making it an excellent addition to a fasting diet.

• Shrikhand:

  Shrikhand is a creamy and indulgent yogurt-based dessert infused with saffron, cardamom, and crunchy nuts. This rich and flavourful sweet dish is not only vrat-friendly but also provides an instant energy boost. Its smooth texture and aromatic taste make it a delightful treat to enjoy while observing the fast.

• Buttermilk (Chaas):

  Chaas, or buttermilk, is a light and cooling drink made from diluted yogurt and seasoned with rock salt, roasted cumin, and fresh herbs like mint or coriander. It aids digestion, replenishes electrolytes, and keeps the body refreshed, making it an ideal beverage for Maha Shivratri fasting.

Fasting Tips for Maha Shivratri

Observing a fast during Maha Shivratri requires mindful preparation to stay energized and healthy. Here are some essential tips to help you maintain your strength and devotion throughout the day.

Observing a fast during Maha Shivratri requires mindful preparation to stay energized and healthy. Here are some essential tips to help you maintain your strength and devotion throughout the day.

1. Plan Your Meals in Advance:

Before beginning the fast, plan your meals carefully to ensure a well-balanced diet. Incorporate a variety of fasting-friendly foods such as fruits, dairy products, nuts, and gluten-free grains to maintain proper nutrition and energy levels.

2. Stay Hydrated:

Drinking enough fluids is essential during fasting. Keep yourself hydrated by consuming water, coconut water, herbal teas, or fresh fruit juices to maintain energy and prevent dehydration.

3. Use Minimal Salt and Spices:

Fasting meals should be light on the digestive system. Opt for mild seasonings like cumin, coriander, and ginger, while limiting the use of excessive salt and strong spices to maintain electrolyte balance.

4. Include Protein-Rich Foods:

To stay full and sustain energy levels, add protein-rich foods such as yogurt, paneer, and milk-based drinks to your fasting diet. These dairy products provide essential nutrients and help keep hunger pangs at bay.

5. Opt for Slow-Digesting Carbohydrates:

Foods like barnyard millet (sama ke chawal), buckwheat flour (kuttu), and water chestnut flour (singhare ka atta) are excellent sources of slow-digesting carbohydrates. They provide long-lasting energy and prevent sudden hunger spikes.

6. Limit Fried Foods:

While fried foods are common during fasting, excessive consumption can lead to bloating and discomfort. Enjoy them in moderation and balance them with lighter, nutrient-dense foods.

7. Listen to Your Body:

Pay attention to your body's signals. If you feel lightheaded or fatigued, break your fast with easily digestible foods such as fruits or yogurt to restore energy levels.

8. Take Time to Rest and Reflect:

Maha Shivratri is not just about fasting but also about spiritual growth. Use this time to rest, meditate, and focus on devotion, avoiding strenuous activities that may drain your energy.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can observe the Maha Shivratri fast with ease while staying healthy and connected to the divine.

Foods to Avoid During Maha Shivratri Fasting:

While observing the Maha Shivratri fast, certain foods are restricted to maintain the sanctity of the vrat. Here are some foods to avoid:

Regular Grains & Pulses – Wheat, rice, lentils, and legumes are not allowed. Opt for vrat-friendly grains like barnyard millet and buckwheat.

Common Salt – Replace with sendha namak (rock salt), which is vrat-compliant.

Onion & Garlic – These are avoided as they are considered tamasic (impure) in nature.

Spices & Condiments – Excessively strong spices like turmeric, garam masala, and mustard seeds should be avoided. Mild spices like cumin and black pepper are preferred.

Processed & Packaged Foods – Junk food, processed snacks, and refined sugar should be avoided as they are not sattvic.

Meat, Eggs & Alcohol – Non-vegetarian food, eggs, and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited.

Stick to simple, sattvic, and Maha Shivratri food to maintain the purity of the fast and stay energized throughout the day.

If you're staying at one of the Club Mahindra Resorts during Maha Shivratri, feel free to reach out to our staff for special fasting-friendly meals. They will be happy to assist you in ensuring a comfortable and fulfilling fasting experience.

Maha Shivratri is not just a festival but a sacred occasion that allows devotees to connect deeply with Lord Shiva through prayers, meditation, and fasting. Observing a fast on this day is a spiritual practice that requires mindful choices to maintain energy and devotion throughout the day. By including wholesome and sattvic Maha Shivratri food, you can ensure that your body stays nourished while honouring the essence of the vrat.

From energizing meals to indulgent Maha Shivratri sweets, the fasting menu offers a variety of delicious and nutritious options that make the experience both fulfilling and enjoyable. As you celebrate this auspicious day, may your devotion be strong, your prayers be answered, and your fasting journey be smooth and rewarding. Har Har Mahadev!