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Mahatma Gandhi 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. (File Photo)
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News18•02-10-2026, 15:30
Gandhi Jayanti 2026: Unpacking Bapu's Simple Diet and Favourite Foods
  • •Mahatma Gandhi was a devout vegetarian, deeply connecting his dietary choices to his belief in ahimsa, advocating against causing harm to any living being.
  • •In 'The Moral Basis of Vegetarianism', Gandhi explained that abstaining from meat was a moral imperative, believing it healthier, more humane, and sustainable.
  • •Gandhi promoted affordable, accessible foods like whole grains, legumes, and fresh fruits and vegetables, which were staples for common people.
  • •His favourite foods included dal, brown rice, yoghurt, and fruits such as bananas, guavas, and papayas.
  • •Gandhi's food choices reflected his belief in nourishing oneself with simple, locally grown ingredients for body and mind.

Key Questions Answered

Mahatma Gandhi preferred simple, locally grown ingredients that were affordable and accessible to the common people. His favorite foods included dal and brown rice, yoghurt, and fruits such as bananas, guavas, and papayas.

Mahatma Gandhi's vegetarianism was deeply connected to his belief in ahimsa, meaning non-injury to living beings. In his book 'The Moral Basis of Vegetarianism,' he argued that abstaining from meat and animal products was a moral imperative for a healthier, more humane, and sustainable lifestyle.

Opposing cruelty to animals, Gandhi stopped drinking cow and buffalo milk and instead chose goat's milk for strength on medical advice. He regularly consumed fresh goat milk or yoghurt made from it as part of his diet.