The Monday fast (Somvar Vrat) is considered highly auspicious for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is believed that observing this fast with devotion fulfills desires and brings peace and prosperity into one’s life. However, the benefits of the vrat are attained only when it is followed with the correct rules. Sometimes, people unknowingly consume certain foods or perform actions that reduce the sanctity of the fast, preventing them from receiving its full spiritual merit. Therefore, it is essential to know what should be avoided during the Monday fast.
Avoid Grains and Lentils
During Somvar Vrat, the consumption of any type of grains is prohibited. This includes wheat, rice, lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, mung beans, and all other cereals. To keep the fast pure and sattvik, grain-free meals are recommended.
No Onion and Garlic
Onion and garlic are considered tamasic foods, which disturb the mind and create restlessness. Hence, they are strictly avoided during the Monday fast, as they reduce spiritual purity.
No Meat, Fish, or Eggs
All forms of non-vegetarian food—fish, chicken, mutton, and eggs—are forbidden on fasting days. These foods are tamasic and diminish the sanctity of the vrat.
Use Rock Salt Instead of Regular Salt
Table salt is not allowed during the Monday fast. Only rock salt (sendha namak) should be used, as it is considered pure and suitable for vrat preparations.
Avoid Packaged and Processed Foods
Items like chips, namkeen, biscuits, frozen foods, noodles, or any ready-to-eat packaged snacks should not be consumed during the vrat.
Avoid Spicy and Oily Foods
Excessively spicy, oily, or fried foods make the body lethargic. Since the fast emphasizes discipline, purity, and simplicity, light and mildly spiced meals are ideal.
Avoid Brinjal and Turmeric
Some people avoid brinjal (eggplant) and turmeric during the Monday fast. Overconsumption of sweets is also discouraged.
No Intoxicants
Purity of mind and body is most important during the vrat. Consuming intoxicants like alcohol, cigarettes, or tobacco disrupts spiritual discipline and destroys the benefits of the fast.
What to Eat During Sawan Somvar Vrat?
Sattvik Food
During Sawan Somvar, you can consume fruits, milk, curd, makhana, sabudana, and dishes made from kuttu or singhara flour. These ingredients are considered pure, vrat-friendly, and are also offered to Lord Shiva. They provide sufficient energy and prevent fatigue throughout the day.
Fruits and Nuts
Fresh fruits such as pomegranate, papaya, chiku, and dry fruits like cashews, raisins, and pistachios are ideal during fasting. They are nutritious and fully compliant with vrat guidelines.
Special Significance of Belpatra
Offering bel leaves, dhatura, and performing Jalabhishek to Lord Shiva on Monday is considered extremely auspicious. Chanting the “Om Namah Shivaya” mantra with a calm mind enhances the spiritual effect of the vrat.
Belpatra is believed to be one of the most powerful offerings to please Lord Shiva, and worship performed with proper rituals is said to yield auspicious results.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.
