Shrawan: A Month of Purity, Now Also Flavorful

KATHMANDU:Shrawan, the fourth month in the Nepali calendar, is a time for spiritual reflection, inner peace, and devotion to Lord Shiva. Shrawan holds immense significance for Hindus. Many Hindus observe this holy month by following a strict vegetarian diet and abstaining from non-vegetarian foods and alcohol. During this month, it is customary to break the fast or eat only vegetarian cuisine, often with dishes like Kheer (Rice Pudding) and other vegetable curries on Shrawan 15.

According to Ayurveda, the month of Shrawan is believed to be a time when our immunity reaches its lowest levels. Consuming non-vegetarian, spicy, or oily foods during this period can have a negative impact on both the immune system and the digestive system, as they are heavy and difficult to digest. This is also the month of rain, where sunlight becomes rare and digestion slows down. Thus, people typically eat light, vegetarian foods to help detoxify the digestive system and defend against water-borne illnesses common during the monsoon season.

Meanwhile, Vishnu Purana says that the Samudra Manthan (the churning of oceans) took place in the month of Shrawan. During this event, fourteen types of rubies emerged, thirteen of which were distributed among the demons. The remaining type, Halahal (poison), was consumed by Lord Shiva, turning his throat blue and earning him the name 'Neelkantha' (meaning blue throat). To reduce the poison's effect, Lord Shiva wore the crescent moon on his head and the Gods offered Ganges water to him.

There are many such beliefs surrounding Shrawan. Devotees observe fasts (Brata), particularly on Mondays, with women of all ages fasting to honor Lord Shiva, chanting mantras, and recounting tales of how he saved the world during Samudra Manthan.

Foodmandu brings you the best-selling vegetarian items from its popular partner restaurants in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan during the month of Shrawan. Customers can enjoy a variety of foods like Tip Top's famous Samosa and Jalebi, Annapurna Sweets’ Chole Bhature or Desi Ghee Jalebi, Moti Mahal Delux's Paneer Butter Masala with Butter Naan, Avata Wellness's Buddha Bowl, and Sangam Sweets' Veg MoMo. With such a diverse selection, everyone can enjoy their favorite and flavourful vegetarian meal while still honoring the spiritual essence of Shrawan. Foodmandu is dedicated to serving a variety of meals at your doorsteps whether it's veg, non-veg or vegan.

During Shrawan, many people strive to maintain physical and spiritual purity. Extensive vegetarian menus similar to Foodmandu allows devotees to savor delicious and healthy meals without compromising their religious pledge.