In “India, Fervor Grows in Fasting for favor from God” by Suhasini Raj, published in The New York Times on February 15, 2025, the author discusses the Hindu tradition of fasting during religious and spiritual festivals, specifically the Kumbh Mela, which is currently underway in India. The Kumbh Mela, which is said to be one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is a 55-day pilgrimage that takes place every 12 years and involves millions of people who come to bathe in the sacred rivers of Haridwar, Allahabad, Nashik, and Ujjain. This year’s gathering in Haridwar has seen a surge in locals and visitors, many of whom have fasted for days or even weeks beforehand in order to seek blessings and good luck from the gods. While the strictest devotees abstain from food and drink for the duration of the Kumbh Mela, others choose to fast for shorter periods or observe specific dietary restrictions throughout the gathering. The author describes the sense of spiritual and physical fulfillment that comes from fasting, as well as its potential health benefits. However, she also notes that those who are fasting for long periods can be at risk for dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other health problems if they do not drink enough water or consume sufficient calories. Overall, the article provides an insightful look at the role that fasting and spiritual practices play in Hinduism and the Kumbh Mela, as well as the potential risks and benefits associated with these traditions. Keywords: Kumbh Mela, fasting, Hinduism, spirituality, faith, religion, health, provoking questions.
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