Top 5 Foods for Fasting Days in Maharashtra

Feb 72 min read

Fasting, or Upwas, is an integral part of Maharashtra’s culture, observed on religious occasions like Ekadashi, Navratri, and Shravan Somvar. During fasting, specific foods that are light, sattvic, and easy to digest are consumed.

Here are the top 5 foods commonly eaten during Upwas in Maharashtra:

1. Sabudana Khichdi

Bowl of sabudana khichdi with peanuts, coriander, and spices. Background includes a checkered cloth and bowls of herbs and nuts.

A popular fasting dish made with soaked sabudana (sago pearls), roasted peanuts, potatoes, and green chilies, seasoned with cumin seeds and garnished with coriander and lemon. It is light, yet filling, providing energy throughout the day.

2. Rajgira Thalipeeth

Close-up of a rajgira thali[peeth garnished with a green chili. Red bowl with yogurt in the background.

Rajgira (Amaranth) flour is gluten-free and rich in protein, making it an excellent fasting ingredient. The dough is mixed with mashed potatoes, green chilies, and cumin, then cooked into crispy flatbreads. Served with curd or white butter, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.

3. Upwas Bhajani Thalipeeth

upawas bhajani flour | upawas thalipeeth bhajani atta — **upawas bhajani**

A special multi-grain fasting flour mix, including rajgira, bhagar (sama rice), and shingada (water chestnut flour), is used to make this savory pancake. It is a great source of energy during fasting.

4. Shengdana (Peanut) Ladoo

Made from roasted peanuts, jaggery, and ghee, these ladoos are a perfect natural energy booster. They are easy to prepare, full of protein, and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

5. Bhagar (Sama Rice) Khichdi

Bhagar, also known as variche tandul, is a fasting-friendly rice substitute cooked with cumin, green chilies, and peanuts. It is light on the stomach yet filling, making it a go-to meal for fasting days.

Fasting, or Upwas, is a time-honored tradition in Maharashtra, offering numerous health benefits when practiced mindfully.

It provides the body with a chance to rest and rejuvenate, potentially improving blood sugar control, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.

However, it's essential to approach fasting thoughtfully. While some may choose complete abstinence from food, consuming light, easily digestible dishes can help maintain energy levels and prevent discomfort.

Traditional Maharashtrian fasting foods like Sabudana Khichdi, Rajgira Thalipeeth, and Bhagar Khichdi are excellent choices, as they are gentle on the stomach and provide sustained energy throughout the day.

By selecting these wholesome, light meals during fasting periods, you can honor cultural practices while supporting your health and well-being.