There are many Hindus who observe Navratri Vrat or fasting during the nine days of Navratri. Most people observe a partial fast during Navratri and abstain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol etc. In 2024, Navratri begins on October 3 and ends on October 12. The fasting is generally dedicated to Goddess Durga. In South India , especially in Kerala, Navratri Vrat is dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi. Puranas indicated that the importance of Navratri fast was narrated by Goddess Durga to one of her devotees. There are no strict rules for any fasting in Hindu religion and usually, the devotees decide how they want to do the fasting during the period. Navratri Fasting in South India In South India , the nine days of Navratri is divided into three parts – three days each for Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati. In North India , there is no division but is dedicated to Mother Goddess or Shakti. People take bath in the morning and evening during Navratri pe