Fasting feasts

Navratri: Enjoy a feast of fasting-approved ingredients with special vrat thalis in Bengaluru. Restaurants offer unique dishes inspired by local traditions, such as Kuttu Atta Ki Puri, Samak Chawal, Shahi Paneer Sabzi, Pumpkin Sabzi, Makhana Kheer, and more. Prices range from ₹625-2,200 plus taxes.

Navratri is a nine-night festival that honours the divine feminine energy, particularly the goddess Durga. Observed by Hindus across the country, this festival is marked by fasting, worship and garba dancing at night. Navratri typically falls in the autumn months and is usually in October, with its exact dates varying each year. This year, Navratri is being celebrated from October 15 to 24. It’s a time when many people choose to observe vrat (fasting) as an expression of their devotion.

However, amidst the spiritual rhythms and cultural celebrations, a key aspect of Navratri is the feast. The fasting, or vrat, during Navratri, is not just about deprivation but about choosing a diet that aligns with the spirit of the festival. Fasting-approved ingredients such as samai, pumpkin, makhana, paneer, and sabudana come to the forefront during this period.

Struggling to find the right vrat ingredients or failing to make that perfect puri with singhade ka aata? If you’re in Bengaluru, you’re in luck. Restaurants in the city are now offering Navratri vrat thalis throughout the festive season. These are specially prepared meals that follow Navratri fasting rules, making it easier for you to enjoy a Navratri feast without the hassle. These thalis include unique ingredients and fasting-approved items, often with flavours inspired by local traditions and temples.

Here’s a look at some of the best places in Bengaluru to find these Navratri vrat thalis:

This restaurant offers a Navratri vrat thali made with fasting-approved ingredients, including samai, pumpkin, makhana, paneer, and sabudana. The thali is seasoned with pink salt and features dishes such as Kuttu Atta Ki Puri, Samak Chawal, Shahi Paneer Sabzi, Pumpkin Sabzi, Aarbi Aachar, Makhana Kheer, salad, Dry Aloo Chips and raita. Customers can also opt for individual vrat dishes if they prefer a lighter meal. Some of the vrat favourites on the menu include Adraki Paneer Tikka and chaats such as Tava Aloo Chaat, Sabudana Aloo Tikki Chaat, and Singhara Papdi Chaat. The vrat thali is available at their Whitefield and Sarjapur locations. For bookings, call +91 93531 42319/+91 93531 39813.

When: October 15-24 Cost: ₹350 plus taxes

The restaurant at Shangri-La, Bengaluru is hosting a Navratri festive thali with an all-vegetarian menu. The meal commences with Shakarkand Aur Anar Ki Chaat and Phaldari salad, followed by crispy Sabudana Vada and Chef Pankaj’s creation, Kache Kele Ki Tikki. The vrat-friendly thali also includes dishes such as Makhane Kaju Ki Sabzi, Dahi Aaloo, Khatta Meetha Kaddu, and Dabi Sukhi Arbi, served alongside staples such as Sabudana Khichdi and Singhade Ki Poori. To satisfy sweet cravings, diners can try Samvat Chawal Kheer and Coconut Laddoos. For bookings, call +91 80 4512 6100.