What is it? Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of each lunar fortnight — so it occurs twice every month (Shukla and Krishna Paksha).

Why observe? In Hindu tradition, Ekadashi is considered sacred to Lord Vishnu. Fasting on this day is believed to purify the body, calm the mind, and bring spiritual merit.

What's avoided? Most observers avoid non-veg food, grains, and beans. Some observe a complete fast. Many families follow a lighter version — just avoiding non-veg and having fruits/milk.

The science angle: Ayurveda suggests that the body's digestive fire fluctuates with lunar cycles. Lighter eating around the 11th day may support natural detox processes.

What is it? Navratri is a 9-night festival celebrated twice a year — Chaitra Navratri (spring) and Sharad Navratri (autumn). It honors the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Why no non-veg? The nine days are considered deeply sacred. Most devotees observe a strict vegetarian (often sattvic) diet — avoiding non-veg, onion, garlic, and alcohol. The idea is to purify the body and mind through discipline.

Regional variations: In some parts of India (especially Bengal), Navratri is celebrated WITH non-veg food during Durga Puja. ShubhDin lets you set YOUR family's tradition. 🙏

The tradition: Tuesday is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the symbol of strength, devotion, and selflessness. Many Hindus visit Hanuman temples, recite the Hanuman Chalisa, and observe a vegetarian day.

Why non-veg is avoided: Hanuman is considered a brahmachari (celibate devotee) who practiced extreme discipline. Avoiding non-veg on his day is a form of offering and self-discipline.

How widespread? This is one of the most commonly followed food observances in North India. Many people who aren't strictly religious still follow this tradition as a family custom. It's often the first "rule" passed from mother to child. 💛

What is it? Shravan (Sawan) is the 5th month in the Hindu calendar, typically falling in July–August. It's considered the holiest month, especially for devotees of Lord Shiva.

The practice: Many families observe a complete non-veg restriction for the entire month. Some also avoid onion, garlic, and alcohol. Mondays in Shravan (Shravan Somwar) are especially sacred.

Why a full month? The monsoon season traditionally brought diseases, and lighter sattvic food was considered healthier. The spiritual layer added devotion and discipline to a practical health practice.

What is it? Amavasya is the new moon day — the darkest night of the lunar month. In Hindu tradition, it's associated with ancestor worship (Pitru Tarpan).

Why some observe it: Some families avoid non-veg on Amavasya as a mark of respect for departed ancestors. It's also considered an energetically heavy day — lighter food helps balance the energy.

Not universally followed: This observance varies significantly by family and region. ShubhDin lets you toggle it based on YOUR tradition.

What is it? Purnima is the full moon day — the brightest night. Each Purnima has a special name and significance (Guru Purnima, Sharad Purnima, Kartik Purnima, etc.).

The practice: Some families observe a sattvic diet — no non-veg, no onion, no garlic. Others observe a full fast. Many simply eat lighter food.

The belief: Full moon is considered a time of heightened energy. Sattvic food keeps the mind calm and receptive to positive vibrations.