Socially, food is the currency of relationship. The phrase Atithi Devo Bhava (The guest is God) dictates that no visitor leaves a home hungry. The act of sharing a tiffin (packed lunch) at work or offering a plate of prasad (sacred food) at a temple dissolves hierarchies. Festivals are defined by specific foods: modaks for Ganesh Chaturthi, ghewar for Teej, and kheer (rice pudding) for almost every celebration. Cooking during these times is a communal activity—women of the household rolling hundreds of pooris or grinding masalas together, turning the kitchen into a space of laughter, gossip, and heritage preservation.
Religion and culture play a massive role; many traditions prioritize vegetarianism or avoid specific meats like beef or pork. Meals are often served as a " ," a large plate featuring a balanced selection of starch, lentil soup (dal), vegetable curries, and yogurt. Socially, food is the currency of relationship