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Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was lovingly called Gandhiji or Bapu in India. He was given the title of ‘Mahatama’ and was also referred to as the ‘father of the nation.’ While the world recognised his contribution to India’s freedom struggle and the building of this nation, it is his simple way of life and his philosophies of non-violence that captured the imagination of even the generations that came after him.
Mahatama Gandhi believed that the way one eats has a profound impact not only on the body but also on the mind and soul. He grew up in Porbandar, a coastal town in Gujarat. This had a significant impact on his food choices. Growing up in a devout Hindu family, Gandhi adhered to the principles of vegetarianism, a common practice in Gujarati culture, especially among the Vaishnav community.
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His mother, Putlibai, was deeply religious and followed strict dietary rules, which influenced Gandhi’s early food habits. The local diet in Porbandar primarily consisted of simple, plant-based foods, including lentils, vegetables, and grains, which shaped his lifelong preference for a simple and frugal diet.
Mahatma Gandhi’s Food Philosophy
His approach to food was rooted in his broader philosophy of life—one that emphasised simplicity, nonviolence, and self-discipline. His favourite foods, like dal, rice, yoghurt, fruits, and legumes, were not just a reflection of his personal preferences but also embodied his belief in nourishing the body with wholesome, ethical, and unprocessed foods.
Gandhi’s principles of nutrition continue to inspire people around the world to lead healthier and more sustainable lives, making his ideas about food as relevant today as they were during his lifetime. His approach to food was deeply rooted in the idea of ahimsa, reflecting his commitment to a simple, healthy, and ethical lifestyle.
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Vegetarianism And Ahimsa
Gandhiji’s approach to food was influenced by his belief in minimalism and the principle of nonviolence. He believed that eating simply, in moderation, and with mindfulness would contribute to both physical well-being and mental clarity. According to him, food was not just fuel for the body but also nourishment for the soul. He advocated for a plant-based diet, primarily consisting of natural, locally sourced foods, and often emphasised the importance of eating in harmony with nature.
Central to his philosophy of food was the idea of swaraj (self-rule or self-control). Gandhiji believed that self-restraint in eating led to self-discipline, which, in turn, helped in achieving greater control over the senses and desires. He argued that overeating and indulgence in rich, processed foods were detrimental not only to the individual’s health but also to society and the environment. In this regard, he was ahead of his time, as many of these ideas resonate with modern concepts of mindful eating and sustainable food practices.
Gandhiji was a devout vegetarian, a choice that was deeply connected to his belief in ahimsa. He believed that one should not cause harm to any living being, and this extended to his dietary choices. In his book titled, ‘The Moral Basis of Vegetarianism’, Mahatma Gandhi explained that abstaining from meat and animal products was not merely a cultural or religious practice but a moral imperative. He was convinced that a vegetarian diet was healthier, more humane, and more sustainable for the planet.
His preference for a simple, plant-based diet also reflected his concern for the underprivileged. Gandhi often stressed that people should eat foods that are affordable and accessible to all, rather than indulging in luxury. He promoted the consumption of whole grains, legumes, and fresh fruits and vegetables, which were staples in the diets of the common people.
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Mahatma Gandhi’s Favourite Foods
Gandhiji’s favourite foods were simple, wholesome, and nutritious. Among them were: Dal and Rice (Chawal) a staple meal in many parts of India. Dal provides an excellent source of plant-based protein, while rice, particularly brown rice, is a source of complex carbohydrates. This combination forms a complete protein and offers essential nutrients, making it a nutritious yet modest meal.
Yoghurt was another favourite of his, as it is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for digestion and gut health. The simplicity of yoghurt, made from milk fermented with natural bacteria, aligns with Gandhi’s preference for unprocessed, whole foods.
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Gandhi had a deep appreciation for fruits and fruit juices, which are natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and hydration. Fruits such as bananas, guavas, and papayas were commonly part of his diet. He valued the natural sweetness of fruits and the nourishment they provided without the need for added sugar or processing.
Legumes like chickpeas, beans, and lentils were significant components of Gandhi’s diet. They are excellent sources of plant-based protein, fibre, and essential nutrients such as iron and folate. Gandhi’s inclusion of these foods were based on his belief in the importance of nourishing oneself with simple, locally grown ingredients that could sustain the body and mind.
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Fasting And its Role in Mahatma Gandhi's Philosophy
Fasting played a crucial role in Gandhi’s life, both as a form of political protest and as a spiritual practice. He believed that fasting was a way to purify the body, mind, and soul, and it helped in developing self-discipline. For Gandhi, fasting was not merely about abstaining from food; it was a form of penance and a means to focus on higher goals. His fasts were often undertaken to promote peace, encourage social reform, or bring attention to important causes, but they were also a personal expression of his deep-rooted belief in self-restraint.
Even during his fasts, Gandhi adhered to the principle of simplicity. He would often consume only water or fruit juices to maintain his energy levels, emphasising the importance of natural, unprocessed foods. Fasting, in his view, was also a way to empathise with the poor and hungry, helping him understand their plight and inspire social change.
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Mahatma Gandhi's Legacy In Modern Nutrition
Gandhiji’s principles of food and nutrition have left a lasting legacy that aligns closely with many contemporary approaches to diet and health. His emphasis on plant-based eating, whole foods, abstinence from alcohol and caffeine and mindful consumption resonates with today’s focus on sustainable, ethical, and healthy diets. In a time when processed foods and fast-food culture dominate, Gandhiji’s philosophy offers a refreshing reminder of the value of simplicity, balance, and moderation in our eating habits. His belief in eating locally grown, seasonal produce is now more popular than ever and widely accepted as a sustainable practice that benefits both personal health and the environment.
