During Navratri, why is non-vegetarian food sold outside Durga Puja pandals? This is one question probably all Bengalis are tired of hearing, especially from people outside Kolkata. Well, if the very utterance of the word ‘Bengali’ reminds you of fish and roshogolla, you’ll know the answer too.
Consumption Of Non-Vegetarian Food During Navratri In Kolkata
No celebration in Bengal is complete without mach, mangso and mishti (fish, meat and sweets). And Durga Puja, which falls around the same time as Navratri, is Kolkata’s biggest festival. So, cutting down their favourite foods from their diet during Durga Puja would be a crime against the gourmet within them. Also, they don’t just treat Durga Ma as a goddess. For Bengalis, Durga Ma is the mother and the daughter. And how can they not celebrate her homecoming with the best of their dishes?
4 Reasons It Is A Big Part Of Bengali Diets
Having said that, there are multiple reasons for Bengalis being lenient with non-vegetarian diets. It is, in fact, a quintessential part of the food system of the Bengalis, sometimes even spiritually.
Here are some reasons why:
- Meat Is Consumed To Celebrate The Victory Of Good Over Evil
According to the Shakta tradition, Durga Ma is regarded as Shakti (the supreme power). Durga Puja is the celebration of the victory of Durga Ma over Mahishasura. Metaphorically, it is the victory of good over evil. The joy of the victory during Durga Puja/Navratri is celebrated by feasting on sacrificial meat, fish, and other non-vegetarian dishes.
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- Meat Had A Special Significance In The Lives Of Married Bengali Women
In ancient times, meat had a special place in the diet of married Bengali women. As per beliefs, a married woman was not permitted to step out of the house without fish and rice. A widow, on the other hand, was not allowed to eat non-vegetarian.
- Fish And Mutton Are Offered As Prasad In Bengali Pujas
Believe it or not, Bengalis offer fish, mutton and even alcohol to Goddess Kali. Goddess Kali is another form of Goddess Durga. And Durga Puja is dearer to them than Navratri, hence, non-vegetarian food is a must.
- Fish Is The Secret Of Our Intellect
Bengali mothers often say, “Mach kheley buddhi barey” (Fish consumption boosts intellect). Bengalis are indeed intellectual with a great love for all things profound, like literature, theatre and loads more. And to nurture their creative heads, they need fish.
Like Bengalis eating non-vegetarian food during Navratri, every community has its own traditions that must be respected.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/shouvik mondal and Canva/Prabal Pratap
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