Haridwar Saints Urge Restaurants to Rename 'Biryani' to 'Veg Pulao'

Saints Launch Campaign in Haridwar

In Haridwar, members of the Akhand Parshuram Akhara have initiated a campaign urging local eateries to remove the term 'biryani' from their signboards and menus. They propose that to maintain the religious sanctity of the holy city, 'veg biryani' should be renamed 'veg pulao'. The saints have visited various food vendors throughout Haridwar, asserting that since 'biryani' is traditionally associated with meat dishes, its presence in this sacred religious site could offend the sentiments of local residents and visiting devotees.

Respecting Religious Sentiments

Members of the Akhara clarified that this proposed change would not negatively impact vendors' businesses but would instead honor the religious feelings of the Sanatani community. One member stated, 'Haridwar is a sacred city. We have requested shopkeepers not to sell this dish, which is synonymous with meat, under the name 'biryani' here. We have asked them to sell it as 'veg pulao'.'

Cultural Significance of Haridwar

Pandit Pawan Shastri, a Bhagwatacharya, addressed reporters, emphasizing that Haridwar is a world-renowned religious city with a culture that is inherently sattvic (pure/vegetarian). The mention of 'biryani' immediately brings to mind meat dishes, which contradicts the dignity of this divine land. He urged all vendors to replace 'biryani' with 'veg pulao' on their menus and signboards, assuring that this would not affect their business or hurt the sentiments of the Sanatani community. He warned that if anyone continues to use the term 'biryani', formal protests would be organized against them.

Preserving the Sanctity of the City

Pandit Adhir Kaushik, president of the Akhand Parshuram Akhara, reiterated that Haridwar is a sacred pilgrimage site. He noted that many stalls are selling food under the name 'veg biryani'. Since the term 'biryani' is linked to meat dishes, it is deemed inappropriate for this holy land. The Akhara has appealed to vendors to remove the word 'biryani' and instead sell 'veg pulao'. Their goal is to preserve the city's sanctity and religious atmosphere, and they request all vendors to cooperate to avoid any future disputes.