Chaitra month starts from 26th March and continues till 23rd April. This month has special significance as it marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year from the first day of Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. Chaitra month is the time when the Sun is at its highest and marks the beginning of spring.
Fifteen days later, on April 9, the Hindu New Year, known as Navratri, begins. During these 15 days, the New Year countdown does not begin as the Moon moves towards darkness, signaling the arrival of the New Moon. During these 15 days, the moon continuously decreases and darkness increases. However, Hinduism talks about moving from darkness to light, so New Year celebrations begin the day after Amavasya when the moon begins to grow.
What to do and what not to do in Chaitra month:
It is advisable to eat food only once a day during this month.
Regular worship of Lord Vishnu and Surya and keeping fast is advised.
In this month, meditation and worship should be done before sunrise.
Worshiping Sun and Goddess in this month provides strength and energy.
There is a tradition of watering trees and donating red fruits in the month of Chaitra.
Eating once a day during this month prevents diseases.
Consumption of jaggery is prohibited this month.
One should wash hands and face before sleeping and wear light colored clothes.
It is advised to wear light clothes and maintain a balanced aesthetic.
Consumption of grains should be minimal, while fruits should be consumed more.
It is advised to avoid stale food.
According to Ayurveda, it is advised to avoid hot water and take bath with cold water in this month.
Avoidance of milk consumption:
Digestion becomes a little weak in the month of Chaitra, hence one should avoid consuming milk in this month as it can be harmful. Instead of this, it will be beneficial to consume curd and honey this month.
Leave out the salt.
Do not consume salt in Chaitra month. Salt should not be consumed for at least 15 days. If you cannot give up salt, you can also manage by eating rock salt.
Do not eat too much fried food.
Minimize the consumption of fried foods in the month of Chaitra. This month you have problems with indigestion. You should consume maximum fruits in this month.