Spirituality : Is Avoiding Non-Vegetarian Food Only on Tuesdays and Saturdays Enough? Premanand Maharaj Responds

Spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj of Vrindavan has addressed a common question among devotees: whether abstaining from non-vegetarian food, as well as onion and garlic, only on auspicious days like Tuesday and Saturday is sufficient for spiritual progress. His answer emphasizes a deeper, more consistent commitment to a sattvic (pure) diet.In his discourse, Maharaj acknowledged that many people, influenced by family traditions and societal norms, believe that restricting their diet on certain days is a meritorious act. While he appreciated the sentiment behind this practice, he explained that from a spiritual perspective, it is incomplete. He questioned the logic of purifying the body and mind on select days, only to consume tamasic (impure) food on others.Premanand Maharaj elaborated that consuming non-vegetarian food is fundamentally a form of violence (himsa) against other living beings. He stressed that a diet obtained through the suffering of animals can never lead to spiritual well-being or the attainment of divine grace. True devotion, he argued, requires a foundation of compassion and non-violence.For those who find it difficult to quit non-vegetarian food, onion, and garlic entirely, Maharaj offered practical advice. He suggested that such individuals should dedicate themselves to chanting the holy names of God and sincerely pray for the strength to overcome these habits. He believes that genuine prayer and devotion can provide the inner resolve needed to transition to a completely pure and sattvic lifestyle. He concluded that a commitment to non-violence in diet is not a part-time practice but a full-time principle for anyone serious about their spiritual journey.