In Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism), fasting, also called Vrat, is considered the soul of the religion. Fasting helps purify the inner self. It increases wisdom, faith, devotion, and purity in life.
What is Vrat? Difference Between Vrat and Upvas
The word Vrat means following good deeds with discipline. According to the Varaha Purana, truth, non-violence, simplicity, and celibacy are seen as mental vows (manasic vrat). Eating once a day, skipping meals, or staying silent are forms of physical and verbal vows.
People often think Vrat and Upvas are the same, but they are different:
- Vrat allows food (limited or simple).
- Upvas means complete fasting without food.
Rishis (sages) designed these practices for the benefit of mankind.
Types of Vrat and Upvas
The scriptures mention 11 types of fasts. Some important ones are:
1. Physical Vrat (Kayik Vrat)
Avoiding violence, insulting others, or harming anyone is considered a physical vow.
2. Verbal Vrat (Vachik Vrat)
Speaking truth, using kind words, and showing compassion to all beings.
3. Mental Vrat (Manasik Vrat)
Keeping the mind calm, steady, and focused on positive and spiritual thoughts.
4. Daily Vrat (Nitya Vrat)
Regular fasts like Ekadashi and Pradosh that are observed for spiritual merit.
5. Occasional Vrat (Naimittik Vrat)
Special fasts done for specific reasons, like Chandrayan Vrat for health or to reduce sins.
6. Wishful Vrat (Kamya Vrat)
Fasts for desires such as good fortune or family well-being. Examples include Karva Chauth, Vat Savitri, and Hal Shashti.
7. One Meal Vrat (Ek Bhukt)
Eating only once a day. It has different forms, such as eating only after half the day has passed.
8. Without Asking Vrat (Ayachit Vrat)
Eating only what is given voluntarily, without asking, and only once in a day or night.
Benefits of Vrat
Fasting brings both spiritual and scientific benefits.
- It improves health and increases lifespan.
- A single fast can destroy many diseases.
- In Sanatan Dharma, diseases are seen as sins, and fasting helps cure them.
- Even serious or chronic illnesses can be healed through fasting.
- It purifies the soul, strengthens faith, and builds inner power.
That’s why fasting is important in every culture and religion across the world.
Purpose of Vrat
Fasts are performed for different reasons and occasions. They may be based on months, lunar days, weekdays, or special events.
Some examples are:
- Navratri (spring and autumn)
- Janmashtami
- Ram Navami
There are also social and personal fasts like:
- Vrat for children
- Vrat for removing widowhood
- Vrat for health
- Vrat for forgiveness of sins
In truth, the number of fasts in Sanatan Dharma is countless, each with its own unique purpose.
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