Purattasi Masam is considered a spiritually significant month for devotees of Lord Vishnu, particularly Lord Venkateswara. Many families observe fasting, follow a simple vegetarian diet and dedicate Saturdays to prayer and worship.
What Is Purattasi Masam Fasting?
Purattasi fasting is a traditional practice followed by devotees during the Tamil month of Purattasi, generally falling between September and October.
Devotees may observe fasting throughout the month or specifically on Purattasi Saturdays, depending on their family customs and religious practices.
Significance of Purattasi Fasting
Purattasi is traditionally associated with devotion to Lord Vishnu. Fasting during this period allows devotees to practise discipline, prayer and spiritual reflection.
Moreover, many families consider Purattasi Saturdays especially auspicious for worshipping Lord Venkateswara and visiting temples.
Common Purattasi Fasting Rules
Fasting practices can differ between families and regions. Commonly followed practices include:
☐ Follow a vegetarian diet
☐ Avoid meat, fish and eggs
☐ Avoid alcohol and other non-vegetarian foods
☐ Maintain cleanliness and personal discipline
☐ Spend time in prayer or devotional activities
☐ Visit a Vishnu or Venkateswara temple when possible
☐ Perform Pooja at home according to family tradition
Some families follow additional restrictions during Purattasi. Therefore, it is best to follow the practices prescribed by your family tradition or Vedic priest.
What Can You Eat During Purattasi Fasting?
Those observing a simple vegetarian fast can include foods such as:
☐ Rice and traditional vegetarian dishes
☐ Idli and dosa
☐ Fruits
☐ Vegetables
☐ Milk and curd
☐ Nuts and dry fruits
☐ Coconut
☐ Traditional homemade sweets
The exact fasting diet varies considerably. Some devotees follow a strict fast, while others eat one or more simple vegetarian meals.
What Foods Are Traditionally Avoided?
Devotees commonly avoid:
☐ Meat and fish
☐ Eggs
☐ Alcohol
☐ Non-vegetarian foods
☐ Foods restricted by their family tradition
Is Fasting Compulsory During Purattasi?
No. Fasting is a personal religious practice and is not compulsory for everyone. Families follow different traditions based on their customs and beliefs. If you have dietary or health requirements, follow an appropriate diet rather than undertaking a restrictive fast.
How to Observe Purattasi Fasting at Home
Begin the day with a bath and clean clothes. Keep your Pooja space clean and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu or Lord Venkateswara. You can light a lamp, offer flowers and Tulsi leaves, chant Vishnu mantras and prepare a simple vegetarian Naivedyam. On Saturdays, families may perform a special Venkateswara Pooja according to their tradition.
