Satvik Indian Society, originally established in 2004, as the Indian Vegan Society, emerged with the primary goal of uniting like-minded individuals in an era when vegans were a scarce community. The mission was to promote veganism without imposing a rigid lifestyle or dietary restrictions. Emphasising the principle of non-harming animals as ideal for human well-being, the society welcomes anyone, irrespective of their dietary habits, be it a regular meat-eater, non-meat eater, or vegetarian, to join.
This inclusive approach focuses on the willingness to adopt these principles rather than enforcing a strict diet or lifestyle. The organisation is affiliated with the International Vegetarian Union (IVU), based in the UK, and the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO), headquartered in New Delhi.
The founder of the Satvik Vegan Society, Shankar Narayan spoke to Asian Voice about the lifestyle.
Can you provide a brief overview of what a Satvik lifestyle entails and how it aligns with traditional Indian philosophies?
First and foremost, the satvik lifestyle is not just about avoiding onion and garlic. The lifestyle embodies good behaviour, a manifestation of human conduct that can be easily integrated into our culture. In our society, someone who embodies non-aggressiveness, non-abusiveness, non-anger, peacefulness, and helpfulness is deemed an exemplary individual – a satvik person.
With a vegan diet, the desire is to instil such behaviour in us and we believe our diet plays a crucial role in shaping a person's nature. It should contribute to cultivating a peaceful demeanour rather than fostering aggression, dullness, dominance, or aggressiveness. Thus, our approach is to consume food that aligns closely with nature, favouring simplicity over complexity.
Approaching a vegan lifestyle, one encounters preconceived notions and negative perceptions. Many associate vegans with restlessness, anger, and an unwelcoming attitude. With a satvik lifestyle, we advocate for a compassionate and understanding approach, emphasising that veganism is not about anger or agitation, but about embracing a lifestyle aligned with principles of peace and non-violence.
Can you explain the dietary principles of a Satvik lifestyle? What are the main types of foods encouraged in a Satvik diet?
Fruits are the best satvik option anyone has on hand. It's all nature's gift to us, and we can easily consume it. The second thing is, given the fact that fruit might sometimes not be available and can be expensive, cooked food, sourced entirely from plants and without having any animal sourced ingredients, similar to what forefathers used to eat is also good for a satvik diet. The simple cooked food includes non-complex recipes with fewer spices and oil and no reliance on packaged food from commercial establishments. It is simple and good for your body.
In what ways does a Satvik lifestyle promote physical, mental and emotional balance?
Satvik lifestyle, once you adapt it, becomes a way of life and beautifully complements your physical and mental health and when you consume good foods, you become peaceful and content. You are not driven to accumulate material wealth or fame, as is common among people. By withdrawing and simplifying, life becomes more meaningful and beneficial, not just for yourself but also for those around you—your family, society members, other people, animals, and the environment. It is beneficial for everyone, promoting peace. As you become more peaceful, you also become more mature. This, of course, provides mental and emotional stability. You gain clarity about the meaning of life, and what you should or shouldn't do, without the need to search elsewhere. You naturally become clear-headed, and your thoughts become focused. This clarity is liberating, allowing you to enjoy life without issues, and fostering positive interactions with people.
