12/09/2026
For many of us who aren't Jain, Paryushan first enterered our lives through Food
The eagerly awaited Churma Laddoos, Fulwadi Combination 😋
Then we learnt it was about so much more ...
Every year while our Jain friends observe Paryushan through fasting, restraint, reflection and forgiveness, we have our own little ritual - receiving their lovingly shared Laddoos
But Prayushan has taught us something beyond food
It is about restraint.
About descipline.
About consciousness.
And perhaps , most importantly less consumption, more consciousness.
The food itself carries a system of Maryada - mindful practices around what is prepared , how it is prepared, ingredients , water freshness , timing and handling
And that made us pause.
Our learning as Food curators
We often talk about food through
Flavor .Technique . Presentation. Innovation
Paryushan reminded us of another dimention
Context
Does it Belong?
The dish cannot be understood only by its recipe.
You need to understand the Culture, the Belief and the Maryada around it
That is our learning as a Culinary custodian of Culture
And then comes our annual walk through Ahmedabads Old City for familiar Jain flavors , old shops and Stories.
Our walks through Zaveriwad and other Amedabads Historic Pols reminds us that heritage lives not only in beautiful Havelis and Derasars (Jain Temples), but also in the people who remember how these neighbourhoods once were.
Sometimes simply stopping to listen to an elder is a way of preserving a story.
What food first introduced you to Jain community , Culture or tradition ?
Was it a prayishan Laddoo?
A festival prasad ?
A family recipe ?
Or something you discovered in an old market place from festive bazaar?
Tell us your story in the comments
And yes, we still look forward to those Laddoos !
Prayushan | prayushanparv | ahmedabadoldcity | food heritage | indian food culture | food maryada
