As Navratri approaches, it's important to know what food options align with the festival's fasting guidelines. Fruits like bananas and apples provide essential nutrients to keep you nourished throughout the day. Spices and herbs can also be used, but table salt should be avoided. Options like yogurt and dishes made with Singhara Atta are recommended, while meat, fish, and eggs are to be strictly avoided. Garlic, onion, and certain oils should also be left out of your Navratri meals.
Digital Fasting: A Path to Detox and Rejuvenation
Digital technology has become an integral part of our lives, but its constant presence can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. In recent years, the concept of "digital fasting" has emerged as a way to combat the negative effects of excessive screen time and reclaim a sense of balance and connection.
Digital fasting involves abstaining from all digital devices for a specific period, typically ranging from a few hours to several days. During this time, individuals focus on activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and engagement with the real world.
Benefits of Digital Fasting
Research has shown that digital fasting can provide numerous benefits, including:
Fasting Guidelines for Navratri
Navratri, a nine-day Hindu festival, is a time for spiritual cleansing and fasting. During this period, devotees follow specific dietary guidelines to align with the festival's observances.
FAQs about Digital Fasting and Navratri Fasting
1. How long should I fast from digital devices?
The duration of a digital fast varies depending on individual preferences and goals. Some experts recommend starting with a few hours and gradually increasing the length as you become more comfortable.
2. What activities can I do during a digital fast?
Engage in activities that promote relaxation and real-world engagement, such as reading, writing, spending time in nature, exercising, or connecting with loved ones.
3. Is it difficult to break a digital fast?
Breaking a digital fast can be challenging, but it is essential to transition back to digital use gradually. Start by limiting screen time and gradually increase it over time.
4. How does Navratri fasting differ from digital fasting?
Navratri fasting focuses primarily on dietary restrictions, while digital fasting involves abstaining from digital devices. However, both types of fasting aim to cleanse the mind and body, promote spiritual growth, and reconnect individuals with their inner selves.
5. What are the potential risks of digital fasting?
While digital fasting can be beneficial, it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any underlying mental health conditions or rely heavily on digital devices for work or communication, consult a healthcare professional before engaging in a digital fast.
The Hindu newspaper has launched a new e-paper featuring a variety of categories such as "The View From India" for international news, "First Day First Show" for entertainment, "Today's Cache" for technology, "Science For All" for simplified science writing, "Data Point" for fact-based analysis, "Health Matters" for wellness tips, and "The Hindu On Books" for literature lovers. The e-paper aims to provide a holistic reading experience for its diverse audience.
In Indian culture, Pitru Paksha, also known as Shradh Paksha, is a time to honor ancestors by preparing meals and offering prayers for their souls to rest in peace. This year, Pitru Paksha will end on September 21, 2025, known as Mahalaya Amavasya, which is considered to be of special importance for pleasing ancestors and receiving blessings. While there is no scientific proof, this ritual holds significance in religious and folk beliefs.
The iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, paid a heartwarming tribute to Indian PM Modi on his 75th birthday by lighting up with a special greeting and his image. This gesture of friendship and partnership between India and UAE was also reciprocated by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of UAE, who wished Modi a day full of happiness, health, and continued success for India. Amidst all the isms in the world, IBNS strives to serve objective news without any bias, leaving the judgment to the readers.
The Supreme Court has recognized Vantara, a top Indian animal conservation centre, for its exceptional practices that go beyond national regulations and surpass international standards. Amidst a growing global concern for animal welfare, Vantara's commitment to science-driven and compassionate care sets a new benchmark in the field. Independent certifications and audits have certified Vantara's holistic framework, making it a model institution for rescue and rehabilitation of animals. The vision of Anant Ambani, the facility's founder, has elevated Vantara as a leader in ethical, transparent, and meaningful conservation of animals.
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has started the "Swachhata Hi Seva 2025" campaign as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, with a focus on promoting community involvement in keeping the city clean. The campaign was inaugurated by NMC Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Chaudhary, who flagged off a 72-hour cleanliness drive in all ten zones of Nagpur. With special squads of sanitation workers deployed and various programs planned, the initiative aims to make Nagpur a cleaner, greener, and healthier city.
After the abrogation of Article 370, Lal Chowk in Srinagar has become a hub of cultural and social activities. Recently, the Akhil Bhartiya Gau Sewa Foundation launched a 180-day padyatra from Lal Chowk to Kanyakumari, to create awareness about cow protection. The padyatra was flagged off with a ceremonial worship of a hybrid cow, symbolizing the region's transformation towards peace and development. This event showcases the changing atmosphere of Lal Chowk post-Article 370 and highlights the importance of cow protection in India.
After heavy rains triggered a landslide near the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu, at least 30 people were killed and several injured. Rescue operations are currently underway to search for any survivors or trapped individuals. In addition to this tragedy, Indian exporters are facing hefty 50% tariffs on goods being exported to America starting today. Stay informed by following the Indian Express on Instagram.
The Travancore Devaswom Board has started repair work on the gold-plated panels adorning the guardian sculptures at Sabarimala Sree Kovil, but not without facing criticism and opposition. The work is being done in Chennai due to the unavailability of electroplating facilities at the temple premises, but this decision has been met with objections from the former priest of the temple. Despite the Board's efforts to justify their actions, the controversy continues to surround the repair of these sacred panels, which have been the subject of much devotion and controversy in the past.
Engineer's Day is celebrated in India on September 15th to honor the legacy of M. Visvesvaraya, a pioneering engineer. It's a day to recognize and appreciate the hard work and technical expertise that engineers bring to society. To make Engineer’s Day 2025 special, here are some inspiring wishes, thoughtful quotes, and fun messages to send to the engineers in your life. Happy Engineer's Day to all the innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries!
The ninth day of Pitru Paksha, known as Matru Navami, holds immense significance for Hindus. On this day, special rituals of shradh are performed to honor and seek blessings from departed mothers, sisters, and daughters. The shradh of Matru Navami is considered to bring peace and salvation to the souls of ancestors, while also fostering the bond of motherhood in the lives of those who perform it. Along with charity and other rituals, it is a day dedicated to honoring the maternal side and upholding ancestral respect.