India, Sept. 19 -- Shardiya Navratri is just around the corner, and devotees of Maa Durga are preparing to celebrate the nine-day festival with great devotion and enthusiasm. This year, it will be observed from Pratipada to Navami of Ashwin Shukla Paksha, falling between September 22 and October 2. During this period, devotees worship Maa Durga's nine forms, known as the Navadurgas. (Also read: Navratri 2025 calendar: When is Shardiya Navratri? Know correct dates and auspicious colours of all 9 days of festival )

Fasting is a significant part of the festival. Across the country, many devotees observe day-long fasts throughout Navratri, while some follow the tradition of "jodas," fasting on two days out of the nine. Regardless of whether ...