Many Hindus will observe a period of fasting for Purtassi, Pitra Paksh and Navaratri during September and October.
During Purtassi, obeisance, penance, devotion and prayer are dedicated to Lord Perumalsamy. It is observed mostly by Tamils and Telugus and will commence on September 17 until October 17.
Pitra Paksh will be observed from September 17 to October 2. It involves intense devotion to God, and devotees also pray for the well-being of the souls of departed relatives.
During this period, observers of these fasts abstain from non-vegetarian meals.
Navaratri will take place between October 3 and 12. It is the nine-night celebration of Mother Durga. The ceremonies include colourful clothing, dancing, fasting, and rituals. Navaratri comes from the Sanskrit nava, meaning ‘nine’ and ratri, meaning ‘night’. The festival is also called Sharda Navaratri.
Benefits of fasting:
* Communities become united during this period.
* The restrictions to a vegetarian diet are not only an act of self-discipline; this abstinence has a profound religious significance, which helps purify the body, mind and soul. It helps discipline the mind, remove toxins from the body and revitalise it in its capacity to function well.
Devotion to God, especially during this period, is important.
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