Hindu Dietary Laws
Sakshi Das, B Block
Overview of Hindu Dietary Laws
Hinduism strongly encourages Vegetarianism amongst its followers since Hindus believe that God created the animals and it is their duty to respect all of God's creations. The Hindu dietary code divides food into three categories : Tamasic, Rajasic and Satvik. Although a devout Hindu would be completely Vegetarian, in today's world many hindus tend to eat all kinds of meat except beef - The Cow is regarded as a holy animal and is meant for worship.
Hindu Brahmin eating traditional food
Brahmins are God's servant and are treated as a bridge between Humans and God. A Brahmin is a devout Hindu and strictly follows the dietary laws. They are highly respected in Hindu communities, almost worshiped as well.
" Thali" : A vegetarian Hindu plate
This is what the daily meal of an average, religious Hindi would look like - food that is purely vegetarian and yet very tasteful and colourful.
Feeding the Animals
Hinduism also promotes feeding animals since they are one of God's creations. Feeding the holy cow is a part of many rituals.
A typical dinner menu would include dishes such as:
Rice
Daahl ( lentils)
Aloo Gobhi ( A dish made with potatoes and cauliflower)
Paneer ( Cottage cheese)
Kheer ( a type of dessert )
Bibliography
Gildy, Gihan El. "Hindu Dietary Practices: Feeding the Body, Mind and Soul." Minority Nurse. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Dec. 2014.
V, Jayaram. "Hinduism and Food." Hinduism, Food and Fasting. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Dec. 2014.
"Hinduism." Faith in Food. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Dec. 2014.
Pictures : hindu brahmin eating food
http://factsanddetails.com/media/2/20120502-BrahminShrimat_Shivananda_Saraswati_Swami_Maharaj.jpg
Donating food to a dog
http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01938/08DCTNGR-_DOG_FOUN_1938163g.jpg
Vegetarian food plate
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/49/Vegetarian_Curry.jpeg