Sargi is a pre-dawn meal that is consumed by married women before they begin their day-long fast on Karwa Chauth, a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India. The Sargi thali is usually prepared by the mother-in-law and comprises a range of foods that supply the necessary energy and nutrients to keep women vitalized throughout the day. The Sargi thali traditionally features 7, 9, or 11 types of bite-sized food items. Here are some foods that should be part of your Sargi thali to maintain your energy levels during Karwa Chauth:

• Fruits: Commence your Sargi with an assortment of fresh, seasonal fruits. Fruits offer vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars that can help maintain your energy levels during the day. Enjoy fruits such as bananas, papayas, pomegranates, berries, or apples during Sargi. Fruits contain fiber, which keeps you satiated and provides ample energy for enduring the day.

• Coconut water: Maintaining adequate hydration is imperative, even while fasting. Ensure you consume enough water during your Sargi to prevent dehydration during the day. You can also include coconut water, which not only helps with hydration but also serves as a natural source of electrolytes.

• Whole wheat parathas or rotis: These are nutritious and can help in maintaining energy levels during the fast.

• Homemade sweets: These should also find a place in the Sargi thali, as no celebration is truly complete without a touch of sweetness. Prepare sweets like laddoos, mathri, or halwa.

• Yoghurt: A small serving of yoghurt can provide probiotics and help with digestion.

It is advisable to avoid tea and coffee a day before Karwa Chauth as they can contribute to dehydration before the fast. Also, avoid spicy or deep-fried dishes, as they may induce bloating and a heavy sensation.