Role of Vegetables in Indian Civilisation: A Historical and Spiritual Odyssey

Indian civilisation owes much of its sustenance, traditions and religious beliefs to vegetables. Vegetables helped shape India’s path from ancient times, all the way from the Indus Valley to the Maurya and Gupta regions. The Ayurvedic practice recommends that eating vegetables is a good way to maintain one’s health on a vegetarian diet. In Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism, vegetables are placed in offerings and rituals that go with their main beliefs. Emphasising non-violence, purity and sustainability, these movements keep people close to what they eat and what they believe in. When we realise the role vegetables played in India and their religious value, it becomes evident that eating them sustainably should continue in years to come.