Palitana: India’s first fully vegetarian city | Fusion - WeRIndia

In a world where food preferences vary widely, Palitana, a small city in Gujarat’s Bhavnagar district, stands apart.

It holds the distinction of being the world’s first officially vegetarian city, where the sale and consumption of meat, fish, and even eggs are strictly banned.

This decision was driven by Jain monks, who protested against the presence of non-vegetarian food in the city.

Their demands led to the closure of around 250 meat shops, and in response, the Gujarat government imposed a complete ban on meat and egg sales.

Palitana is a major Jain pilgrimage centre, home to the Shatrunjaya Hill temples, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists every year.

The city’s vegetarian status is deeply rooted in ahimsa (non-violence), a core Jain principle that forbids harming any living being, no matter how small.

To respect this belief, the government passed a law prohibiting animal slaughter and the trade of meat products.

While the Jain community has welcomed the ban, critics argue that it restricts individual freedom.

Many believe that imposing dietary restrictions violates fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. However, despite the controversy, Palitana has fully embraced its new identity.

Since the ban, the city has witnessed a significant transformation in its food culture.

Numerous vegetarian and vegan restaurants have emerged, offering a variety of meat-free dishes. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a diverse range of plant-based meals while experiencing the city’s religious and cultural heritage.

This shift has positioned Palitana as a unique destination for vegetarians and those exploring a plant-based lifestyle.

While debates over personal food choices continue, the city remains a stronghold of Jain traditions and non-violence.

Palitana’s story reflects the power of religious beliefs in shaping societal norms.

Whether one agrees with the ban or not, the city stands as an example of a community committed to its principles.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on January 30, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/572384