India, March 30 -- Chaitra Navratri is here, and while fasting may be a tradition, chefs and restaurants are making sure it's far from boring. Forget the usual sabudana khichdi and aloo ki sabzi-this year, the city's culinary innovators are serving up interesting dishes on vrat-friendly classics.

Chef Vaishnav Machindra Kasture at Sheraton New Delhi has prepared Samak Rice Pulao that brings together cumin and ginger, the nuttiness of toasted coconut, and the zest of lemon, creating a dish that's both comforting and refreshing. "The delicate balance of textures-from the crunch of peanuts to the soft, fluffy millet-ensures a wholesome yet indulgent experience," he adds.

Meanwhile, Chef Nishant Choubey at Nineteen78 is experimenting with t...