Navratri Vrat or Navaratri Vratam is an important fast observed
by Hindus during Ashvin (September – October). Navratri 2013
begins on October 5 and ends on October 13. Vasant Navratri is
from April 11 to April 19. It is believed that those devotees
who perform Navratri fasting will find happiness on earth and
will receive ‘moksha.’ Legend has it that, how to observe the
Navarathri Vrat was once narrated by Goddess Durga to one of her
ardent devotee. The Vratam is observed by both men and women and
Navratri mantra is repeated during the period. The Navratri fast
is observed from the first day to the ninth day of Ashvin month.
People take bath in the morning and evening during this period
and some even drink water only after the ritual bath in the
morning. Most devotees take only a single meal during the day.
Non-vegetarian food is totally avoided. Some people confine to
milk and fruits during the nine days. Some devotees only observe
fast during three days i.e., first fast during any one of the
first three da