Pune: The ongoing Shravan period is seeing some people go beyond fasting and dietary restrictions by reducing their screen time, switching off social media notifications, avoiding mindless scrolling and keeping their phones away.“This is a sort of modern extension of the traditional focus of the month. We are consciously looking to create a quieter month with fewer social media distractions,” said Aarti Shinde, a resident of Kothrud.“It’s not about abandoning technology; it’s about avoiding mindless scrolling and social media stalking. I have decided to take a break from social media and have deactivated my accounts temporarily,” said Diksha Shah, a resident of Wanowrie.While young professionals continue to use laptops and cellphones for work, many are designating a “no-screen hour” during the month.“My mother and grandmother observe Shravan fasts, but for me, it’s a digital fast. Going without screens for an hour a day has not been difficult so far,” said Mrinalini Kapadia, a resident of Fatimanagar.Some youngsters who have taken up the digital fast are spending their time meditating, journaling and cooking traditional recipes. “There is a sense of inner peace when one is not constantly looking at the phone. I have started reading more, spending time with my family and even cooking some of my grandmother’s traditional recipes,” said Sheetal Chandra, a resident of Pashan.Third-year engineering student Sahil Kulkarni has decided to avoid webseries and gaming during the month. He calls it his “digital vrat”.Reducing screen time has also helped some people improve their overall wellbeing. “I have realised that I sleep better, feel more energetic in the morning and even eat healthier because I have reduced my screen time. I have also started pursuing hobbies like baking because I have more time now,” said Vandana Solanki, a resident of Undri.For many families, the digital detox is also accompanied by a return to traditional Shravan meals. Fasting households turn to sabudana khichdi, rajgira thalipeeth, sweet potatoes, fruits, peanuts and dairy-based preparations.“It’s a period of slowing down, self-introspection and reconnecting with traditions. I hope this will set the tone for the rest of the year for my children,” said Sarita Diwan, a resident of Kondhwa.
