Inside PM Narendra Modi’s Unbelievable Fasting Routine, What Can We Learn from It?

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Fasting is often perceived as a mere act of abstaining from food, but for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it embodies discipline, spirituality, and heightened awareness. In a recent conversation on the Lex Fridman Podcast, Modi shared his profound interpretation of fasting within Indian culture, shedding light on its role beyond physical endurance.

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"Fasting is a way to cultivate discipline. During fasting, the senses are so sensitive and sharp that you can even smell water. Fasting accelerates the body's thinking process," he remarked, offering a unique perspective on how fasting sharpens both body and mind. Modi believes that fasting not only strengthens willpower but also fosters a deeper connection between the body and mind, allowing individuals to develop heightened self-awareness and mental clarity.

Modi's Personal Fasting Practices

The Prime Minister has adhered to rigorous fasting routines for over five decades. One such tradition is Chaturmas, a practice spanning from mid-June to November, during which he consumes only one meal every 24 hours. This aligns with the ancient Indian belief that digestion slows during the monsoon, demonstrating a mindful adaptation to natural cycles. This period is regarded as a time of heightened spiritual discipline and introspection, enabling practitioners to cultivate patience, self-restraint, and mindfulness in their daily lives.

Additionally, Modi follows Navratri fasting, a deeply spiritual practice observed twice a year in honour of the goddess Durga. During this period, he abstains completely from food, consuming only hot water. He also follows Chaitra Navratri fasting, during which he consumes a single type of fruit once a day for nine days. For instance, if he chooses papaya, he will eat nothing but papaya throughout the duration of the fast. This practice underscores his unwavering dedication to maintaining discipline and spiritual purity.

"Fasting for me is devotion, fasting for me is self-discipline," he asserted, encapsulating his belief in fasting as a holistic spiritual exercise rather than a restrictive diet. Modi's approach to fasting is not just about abstaining from food but about fostering resilience, inner peace, and self-control. He sees fasting as a tool to cleanse the body, mind, and soul, allowing him to perform his duties with greater focus and dedication.

The Spiritual And Physical Benefits Of Fasting

Fasting, as Modi describes, has been a deeply embedded tradition in his life, shaping his approach to health and spirituality. He emphasised how fasting sharpens the mind rather than slowing it down, challenging the common misconception that fasting leads to weakness. Instead, he sees it as a powerful tool for recharging the body and soul, reinforcing willpower, and achieving a state of inner harmony.

He also spoke about how fasting increases sensory awareness. "You may have noticed, when you fast, your senses like smell, touch, and taste become highly sensitive," he explained. According to him, fasting allows the body to redirect energy from digestion to mental processes, improving concentration and mental clarity. Through fasting, he believes individuals can develop a deeper appreciation for food, self-restraint, and their inner spiritual selves.

Fasting As A Journey, Not A Rule

Modi's discussion on fasting provides valuable insights into its cultural and spiritual significance in India. His personal commitment reflects a deep-rooted belief in self-discipline and devotion. His regimen, encompassing both Chaturmas and Navratri fasts, underscores fasting's role in enhancing sensory perception, strengthening the spirit, and maintaining sharpness of mind.

Photo Credit: PTI

For those considering fasting, Modi's experience exemplifies how traditional disciplines can contribute to personal vitality and spiritual depth. While fasting requires discipline and dedication, he views it as an integral part of his lifestyle, reinforcing the importance of mindfulness, inner balance, and holistic well-being. His fasting practices serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating how traditional wisdom can be effectively integrated into modern life for enhanced physical and mental resilience.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.