❓ What is the difference between Vrat and Upvas?

Vrat is associated with a specific resolve (sankalpa) or religious ritual, in which a person follows certain religious rules. For example, the Vrat of Santoshi Mata or Ekadashi Vrat is observed with specific religious resolves and rules. On the other hand, Upvas mainly involves following rules related to food and diet. For example, abstaining from grains or consuming only fruits during Upvas can be part of its rules. In simple terms, Vrat is related to religious resolve and rules, whereas Upvas mainly involves dietary regulations. However, in many religious traditions, both terms are often used interchangeably.