Should pregnant women observe Karva Chauth or Navratri fasts? : Read Premanand Ji Maharaj’s guidance on the scientific and religious aspects, baby’s health, and the right alternatives.
Question: Are Karva Chauth and Navratri Fasts Safe for Pregnant Women? Safe fasting practices for pregnant women
During pregnancy, many mothers wonder: Should pregnant women observe Karva Chauth and Navratri fasts? A woman asked this question to Maharaj Ji, and his response was not only rooted in spirituality but also supported by scientific reasoning. Is fasting safe during pregnancy
Maharaj Ji’s Answer: What is the Greatest Fast During Pregnancy?
According to Maharaj Ji, when a woman is pregnant, her greatest fast (vrat) is ensuring the nutrition of her unborn child. The baby in the womb depends entirely on the mother’s diet and lifestyle.
If the mother observes long fasts, especially strict waterless fasts like Karva Chauth, the baby is deprived of essential nutrients. Fasting tips for pregnant women
- Lack of nutrition can lead to weakness, diseases, and developmental issues in the baby.
- The fetus receives nutrition through the umbilical cord, which directly depends on the mother’s diet.
- Therefore, regular, nutritious meals are extremely important during this period.
Why Pregnant Women Should Avoid Strict Fasting
Maharaj Ji explains:
- Every sacrifice made by the mother during pregnancy directly affects the child.
- Observing nine-day Navratri fasts or waterless Karva Chauth fasts deprives the fetus of hourly nutrition.
- Scriptures also mention that the unborn child’s nourishment comes only from the mother. (Karva Chauth fasting during pregnancy)
What Should Pregnant Women Do Instead?
- Avoid waterless fasts or severe dietary restrictions.
- Opt for satvik meals and engage in bhajans, kirtan, and spiritual practices.
- Mental devotion to God is the greatest form of fasting.
Can Women Worship Lord Hanuman During Pregnancy?
Another question asked was whether women can observe Hanuman Ji’s fast. Maharaj Ji clarified:
- Lord Hanuman is God; everyone can worship Him.
- Women can recite Hanuman Chalisa, chant His name, offer food (bhog), and perform aarti.
- However, certain traditions like physical service (ang seva) or ceremonial bindings have no scriptural proof, so they should be avoided.
- Reading Bajrang Baan is also allowed, as it is a form of praising God, not performing rituals against someone.
हिन्दी में पढ़ें (क्लिक करें)
Conclusion: Motherhood is the Greatest Vrat (Fast)
Maharaj Ji’s core message is clear: During pregnancy, a woman’s greatest dharma and vrat is ensuring proper nutrition for her unborn child. Avoid Karva Chauth or Navratri fasts during this time. Instead, remember God, perform devotional practices, and consume satvik food. This is the truest form of worship.
