As Navratri is around the corner, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) introduced Vrat Thalis to its passengers.

Many devotees observe fasting during Navratri. Due to food restrictions, they eat only certain foods during fasting.

Generally, two methods of fasting are followed by people. One is a diet without salt. In this diet, people consume only fruits, dry fruits, milk, and coconuts. They do not consume salt. Another is a salt diet with limited spices made of particular flours and vegetables. They stay away from processed and polished food items.

Sago khichdi, kuttu atta, low-fat makhana kheer, potato paratha and food items made with water chestnut flour and fox nut flour are commonly consumed during Navratri.

Considering the needs of devotees, Railways introduced special Vrat Thali for its passengers. Passengers who want to book the food can call on 1323. Their food will be delivered to their seat. The special menu will be available for railway passengers from 26 September 2022 and 5 October 2022.

The food is prepared as per the diet restrictions during the festival. Food is prepared without onion and garlic. Rock salt is used instead of regular salt.

This Vrat Thali is available at 400 railway stations in the country. To help passengers who observe fasting during Navratri, Railways decided to arrange the special thali. It will be continued further as per the demand of the passengers.

The special Vrat Thali comes in different versions in various price ranges, starting from ₹99. Fruits, buckwheat Pakora and curd are available for ₹99. One can also get 2 parathas, potato curry, and sago pudding for the same price.

If passengers want 4 parathas, 3 vegetables and sago khichdi, they have to spend ₹199. On the other hand, aloo paratha, paneer paratha, Vrat Masala, and singhara are priced at ₹250.

Image Credit: Mrudit161187, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Alu_Sabudana_Khichdi.jpg