The Hindus form a large part of the Indian population and these mythological texts form the core of their religious practices and beliefs. For the unversed, Indian mythology refers to a collection of Hindu texts that range from regional literature and Vedic texts to epics. In fact, a lot of Hindu festivals are celebrated on the basis of these mythological tales. For instance, Dussehra and Diwali find their roots in the epic Ramayana wherein Lord Ram vanquishes Ravana, the demon in the former and returns to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile in the later.
Deep-rooted mythological connections have resulted in several traditions and practices being followed. The houses are lit up with diyas and decorated with garlands on Diwali along with the burning of fire crackers while on Dussehra, effigies of Ravana are burnt. Similarly, there are special foods that also find mention in these Indian myths. With more than three crore Hindu deities to worship, each of them is believed to have been associated with some food or the other.
Not just special prasads (holy food) that are offered to Gods and Goddesses during pujas and festivals, there are several other eats which we consume on a daily basis whose traces can be found in these ancient texts.
1. Amla
This citrusy fruit is well-known for its health benefits, right from curing cough, cold and other infections to giving a tasty and tangy taste. Did you know that Goddess Lakshmi was offered this fruit by her worshippers? The tale states that Adi Shankara was given amla by a woman who was later blessed with gold coins. The essence of the tale lies in the fact that Goddess Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) resides in this fruit and is good to eat. No wonder amla is considered to be a superfood.
2. Thandai
Thandai is a milk-based drink that is often mixed with bhang and relished on Holi. This cool and refreshing drink is significant for Maha Shivratri and the worshippers consume it to celebrate the day. It is based on the belief that Lord Shiva used to drink thandai during the Samundra Manthan. When the ocean was being churned for amrit, the thandai helped Lord Shiva soothe his throat.
3. Black Sesame Ladoos And Khichdi
If you grew up in a strictly religious Hindu household, you would have heard of priests saying things like, “Iska Shani bhaari hai” etc. The fear of Lord Shani getting angry with us and creating obstacles in our life is something you might have felt then. Now, Shani dev was dark in the womb itself because his mother Goddess Chhaya went without food and water for days as a form of self-punishment. This indicates towards his fascination of black sesame seed ladoos and black dal khichdi .
4. Honey
This is a little known fact that Goddess Durga drank honey in order to kill Mahishasura. While she was drinking honey, the demon was roaring but finally when she stopped, she was able to kill him.
5. Makhan Mishri
The ubiquitous dessert dish that is offered as prasad to Lord Krishna on Janamashtami every year has a story to tell. This creamy and smooth butter and sugar combination was a favourite of the lord who is believed to have stolen it from several houses as a kid.
