Today is the beginning of Caturmasya. When I was in Hong Kong I asked Srila Gurudeva the benefits of fasting during these 4 months.
(Ald): What is the benefit of observing caturmasya, Srila Gurudeva?
(Srila Gurudeva) O the benefits are endless. Limitless. Our entire guru-parampara followed it. The 4 Kumaras also observed caturmasya. My Guru Maharaja also.
You cannot imagine the benefits. All in our lineage followed it.
(Sripad BV Madhava Maharaja & Sripad Brajanath Prabhu in unison): And our Srila Gurudeva is also following it.
Below are the foods restricted for the entire 4 months and particular foods during each of the 4 months:
Eggplants, tomatoes, loki, parmal, urad dahl and honey
Particular foods that are restricted during the first month:
No leafy vegetables, such as spinach, salads of all types, cabbages of all types, kale, leafy herbs like coriander, mint, parsley, curry and powdered leafy herbs and teas.
2nd month:
No yoghurt
3rd month:
no milk
4th month:
No mustard seeds, mustard oil, sesame seeds, sesame oil.
Also today there is a a penumbral lunar eclipse, which is an inauspicious moment.
16:32:16 start of the eclipse
18:44:57 end of the eclipse
During this time, avoid sleeping, eating, drinking and using the bathroom. Constantly chant Harinama.
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