Indian Traditions and Religious Fasting During Examination Periods

India is a country of values and beliefs; people of every community believe in keeping fast as a part of their tradition and a way to worship their own gods. This act is somehow inspired by the culture and non-operational values of the particular religion. Fasting is primarily an act of willing moderation or reduction of certain or all types of foods, drinks or both, for a particular period of time. This period differs according to the religion and the type of fast. An absolute fast is normally defined as abstinence from all types of foods and liquids for a defined period, usually a single day (24 hours) or several days. Other fasts may be only partially restrictive. In other words, they allow consumption of some kind of food and drink in a day. Although fasting diets have been criticised by nutritionists for being unhealthy, yet, it has been proven that fasting can regenerate the entire immune system by producing new white blood cells.

Basically, students take up fast during their examination to worship a god or goddess for securing better marks in their examinations. This belief draws its roots from the cultural myths and orthodox traditions present in the society, formulated by the ancestors and being followed by culturally blind followers. It is important to know why they do such things that are not essential. Usually, thousands of students in India participate in fasting for their growth. This paper discusses the cultural beliefs and myths of fasting and their impact on the attitude of the Indian students during their exam periods.