FASTING

Just came back from a lunch. An amazing one though.

And the occasion was ~ an Engagement party.

With two of the most beautiful people I know playing the hosts.

It's not even two days since I came to Delhi and I can hear wedding bells all around. Wow!! {Is February still on :)}

Well, it seems like a long time, may be ages back that I used to keep fasts on Sundays.

Why? I'll explain later.

Fasts on Sundays usually comprises of anything and everything that is "sweet". I know you are already salivating. Hold that thought.

You are not allowed to eat "ann" . So, believe me you can't be having sweets the day long. By the time it's night you already start hating anything and everything which is sweet. Even people: P

I couldn't take it anymore. One Sunday and I puked.Over it was. Forever.

In our Indian tradition people observe fast. Earlier it was the 'women' clad who skipped meals for anything and everything .Be it connected with their husbands , "would-be" husbands ,children,"would be" children or just about something which they thought was important .

Now, both males and females alike keep fasts. The concept of [Navgraha] and the related gamut of Indian gods are such that there are weeks when people go on fasting. This at times, may include no water no food.

Why FAST?

Well, there is an ancient Hindu story behind this. I'll tell the long story short. You fast or skip a meal when you really want to connect with god and do something which is not being done by many people. It means that you come in this world to do your karmas. This includes eating. Eating is considered to be a very pious deed. To feed someone or being fed by someone is very holy. After all, all that we work for is that [do waqt ki rotti]. And not having that means sacrificing yourself to God to make him hear you.

It's a strange world. Strange beliefs. Strange rituals.

Does FASTING helps?

Well if you're looking for a six-pack then there are better ways to achieve that.Jokes apart it all boils down to your [shradha] / faith. If you really believe in yourself and your deeds, things would happen accordingly. Never play a win-win game with God.i.e. If I fast you give me "this". If I come and visit you "you get me that".

You can't hide away from God. So make sure you never do any "Shaartein" with God.

It can have dire consequences.I know this for sure.

Some thoughts....

I know what Arushi always used to say."Karan-it should come from within. I know about 'karva-chauth'.But you can't force me to keep one. If I feel that I should I will. That is love. That is faith. That is what "real fasting" is about".

No one should ever force you to fast. If you want to, make sure you know the "why" part. There is no harm in keeping the fast and praying to god to grant your wish. We are humans after all.

But as I always say - "mangne ka bhi tareeqa hota hai".

~happy fasting.......