Mumbai: Gupt Navratri holds a special significance in Hinduism and is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her various forms. Unlike the widely celebrated Chaitra and Sharadiya Navratri, Gupt Navratri is observed in secrecy and is considered highly auspicious for spiritual seekers and tantra sadhana practitioners. It occurs twice a year—once in the Magh month (January-February) and again in the Ashadha month (June-July). In 2025, the first Gupt Navratri begins on January 30 and concludes on February 7.
During Gupt Navratri, devotees perform rigorous prayers and follow strict fasting rules to seek the divine blessings of Goddess Durga. To ensure the spiritual benefits of this sacred period, certain customs and restrictions must be observed. Here are the key things you should avoid during Gupt Navratri.
What Should Not Be Done During Gupt Navratri?
1. Avoid Tamasic Food Items
During Gupt Navratri, devotees must abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food, alcohol, onion, garlic, and any other tamasic (impure) foods. Instead, they should follow a sattvic (pure) diet, which includes fruits, dairy products, and grains like buckwheat, water chestnut flour, and amaranth.
2. Do Not Cut Hair, Beard, or Nails
Those observing the Navratri fast should refrain from cutting their hair, beard, or nails, as it is believed to disrupt the spiritual energy accumulated during the fasting period.
3. Avoid Conflicts and Arguments
Maintaining a calm and composed demeanour is essential during Gupt Navratri. Devotees should avoid engaging in arguments, disputes, or any kind of disrespectful behaviour towards others, as it can have negative karmic effects.
4. Refrain from Lying and Anger
Speaking the truth and maintaining a positive attitude are crucial aspects of Navratri observance. Devotees should avoid lying, gossiping, or indulging in anger, as these actions are believed to create negative energy.
5. Do Not Wear Black Clothes
Wearing black or dark-coloured clothes is considered inauspicious during Navratri. Instead, devotees should wear light-coloured or traditional attire to maintain a positive spiritual aura.
6. Avoid Leather Products
Using leather items such as belts, wallets, or footwear should be avoided, as leather is derived from animals and is considered impure for sacred occasions.
7. Keep the House Clean and Well-lit
A clean and well-lit home invites positivity and divine energy. Devotees should ensure that their house remains free of dirt and clutter. Keeping lamps or diyas lit during the evening is also encouraged.
8. Do Not Sleep During the Day
Those observing the fast should avoid sleeping during the daytime, as it is believed to reduce the benefits of fasting and spiritual discipline.
9. Do Not Break the Fast Prematurely
Once the Navratri fast is undertaken, it should not be broken midway. If fasting is too difficult due to health reasons, it is advisable to consult a spiritual guide for alternative ways to observe devotion.
10. Do Not Harm Women, Elderly, or Animals
Gupt Navratri is a time of compassion and goodwill. Devotees should be particularly mindful of treating women, the elderly, and animals with kindness and respect.
11. Avoid Mundan (head-shaving) Ceremonies
Performing a Mundan (head shaving) ceremony is not considered appropriate during Navratri, as it is a period of spiritual discipline and devotion.
12. Consume Only Pure and Sattvic Food
Eating fresh, homemade, and sattvic food is essential for those fasting. Packaged and processed foods should be avoided, as they may contain impurities.
13. Do Not Sleep on a Bed
As part of the penance, some devotees choose to sleep on the floor instead of a bed for all nine days, symbolizing humility and devotion.
When is Gupt Navratri in 2025?
According to the Vedic calendar, the Magh Gupt Navratri in 2025 will begin on January 30 and will conclude on February 7. Devotees observing the fast should make an effort to offer food to at least one young girl (Kanya) daily as a form of Goddess Durga’s blessing. On the eighth (Ashtami) and ninth (Navami) days, it is considered highly auspicious to feed young girls and seek their blessings.
By following these fasting rules and avoiding the listed prohibitions, devotees can maximise the spiritual benefits of Gupt Navratri and invite positivity, peace, and divine grace into their lives.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)
Gupt Navratri 2025 begins on January 30! Avoid these 13 things to seek the divine blessings of Goddess Durga and maximize your spiritual benefits. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
