About 40 percent of the Indian population is vegetarian. There are places in India where no meat is allowed and only vegetarian food is served. In this article, we will look at the list of Indian cities where meat is banned.
There are places in India where you are not allowed to eat meat; Checklist (Image credit: bortonia/DigitalVision Vectors/Getty Images)
New Delhi: India is known for its great diversity in every way. Besides natural diversity, the country is characterized by remarkable harmony among its people who follow different religions and speak different languages. This diversity is reflected in lifestyle, culture and food, creating a unique blend in other regions. Interestingly, about 40 percent of India’s population is vegetarian and there are cities where predominantly vegetarian food is consumed, resulting in a lesser proportion of non-vegetarian eaters. After reading this article, you will get insights into seven cities in India where non-vegetarian food is not allowed.
Cities where meat is not allowed
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city in India known for its strong cultural and religious ties to vegetarianism, especially among the Hindu population. As a result, most local restaurants and street vendors exclusively offer delicious vegetarian dishes. In 2019, the Indian government banned the sale and consumption of alcohol and non-vegetarian food within 250 meters of all temples and cultural monuments in Varanasi, further highlighting the city’s commitment to vegetarianism and religious sanctity.
Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Haridwar is the gateway of the gods and has great religious significance for Hindus. It is a purely vegetarian city and the sale of meat, fish and eggs is prohibited. In 2004, the Supreme Court upheld the Uttarakhand government’s decision to declare Haridwar a holy city.
Palitana, Gujarat
Located in western India, Gujarat is known for its predominantly vegetarian population. The state has a strong cultural and religious influence, especially in terms of promoting vegetarianism. A notable example is Palitana, which was declared a completely vegetarian city by the Government of Gujarat in 2014. As a result, killing animals for meat is punishable by law in this city. This unique approach reflects the deep-rooted cultural values and reverence for life in the region.
Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
Vrindavan is a holy place where Lord Krishna made his childhood home. Both Vrindavan and Mathura are cities that are deeply rooted in Hindu culture and tradition and place great emphasis on vegetarianism. When a Nagar Panchayat is declared a holy shrine, it means that the sale of non-vegetarian food and alcohol is banned in that area. Although these products are not usually sold openly due to cultural and religious reasons, it is important to know that people who consume non-vegetarian food are not banned from living in those areas.
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
The Ayodhya administration has banned the sale and purchase of non-vegetarian products within a 15 km radius of the Ram Mandir along Panch Kosi Marg. Moreover, consumption and sale of alcohol is prohibited in this area.
Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Madurai, located in the heart of Tamil Nadu, is known for its iconic Meenakshi Temple and rich culinary heritage. Although one would not necessarily associate vegetarianism with a city in Madurai, it surprises visitors with its delicious and healthy vegetarian cuisine. The city’s culinary offering is a delicious blend of original Indian spices that create dishes that are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Often called the “Lord of the Senses”, Rishikesh is a major pilgrimage center in India and holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism. Due to its sacred status, Rishikesh has a strict ban on alcohol and the availability of non-vegetarian food within its borders. The vibrant culture and religious heritage of this city make it a significant destination for spiritual seekers and yoga enthusiasts from all over the world.
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