Diet of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman: Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian?

Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman are revered figures in Hinduism, each with their unique stories and roles. A common question that arises is about their dietary preferences. Were they vegetarians or non-vegetarians? This article explores the evidence from the Ramayana and other Hindu scriptures, providing insights into the diet of these divine beings.

Lord Rama: A Non-Vegetarian Affinity

Lord Rama is portrayed in the Ramayana as a follower of the Kshatriya warrior class, and his diet was primarily based on non-vegetarian foods. This is supported by several references in the Ramayana that depict Rama consuming meat.

For instance, in the Ramayana (2:52:89), Sita states her intentions to serve meat after returning to Ayodhya:

"O goddess Ganga! After returning to the city of Ayodhya I shall offer you a thousand pots of spirituous liquor and meat with cooked rice well prepared for the solemn rite."

Further, in a chapter of the Ramayana (2:56:22), Rama instructs Lakshmana to bring meat for a purification ritual:

"O Lakshmana! Bring the meat of an antelope. We shall perform a purificatory ceremony while entering the house. This ceremony should be done by those who wish to live long."

These references highlight Rama's non-vegetarian inclinations, particularly in times of celebration and ritualistic purposes.

However, it is important to note that Rama was a vegetarian during his exile in the forest. The Ramayana (2:56:35) mentions a situation where Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, consumed forest fruits and vegetables, suggesting that his diet was vegetarian during this specific period:

"Rama and Lakshmana along with Sita having auspicious characteristics satisfied the spirits by garlands obtained in the forest by fruits roots and cooked meat by water by prayers as uttered in the sacred texts Vedas by sacred grass by fuel and Kusa grass and then entered the auspicious leaf-hut."

Therefore, while Lord Rama had a preference for non-vegetarian meals, he also adapted to a vegetarian diet during certain circumstances.

Lord Krishna: A Lifelong Vegetarian

Lord Krishna, on the other hand, is known to have followed a strict vegetarian diet throughout his life. He was born in a Nanda Yadav family, where the primary diet was dairy-based, consisting of milk, butter, and curds. This diet remained consistent with his lifelong habits as documented in various Hindu scriptures and texts.

For example, the Bhagavata Purana mentions:

"Krishna, who is the origin of all, performed the austerities of fasting, and then accepted the gifts of milk and curds that were offered by cows to the deserving chastity and virtue."

These references clearly indicate that Lord Krishna was not known to consume non-vegetarian food, maintaining a purely vegetarian diet even after returning to his divine form.

Lord Hanuman: A Completely Vegetarian Vanara

Lord Hanuman, the greatest devotee of Lord Rama, is a Brahmachari and a vanara, which means he was a strict vegetarian. His diet was entirely dependent on fruits, raw juicy stems, roots, and leaves. There are no references in Hindu scriptures that suggest Lord Hanuman consumed any non-vegetarian food.

The Vanaratna verse (Bhagavata Purana 4.15.32) describes Hanuman's eating habits as:

"He who eats only fruits, roots, stalks of growing trees, roots and leaves."

This depiction clearly outlines Hanuman's vegetarian diet, free from any non-vegetarian elements.

The Law of Dharmas in Different Yugas

It is important to note that dietary laws in Hinduism are influenced by the concept of Yuga Dharmas. These laws are not absolute and can vary according to the specific times and circumstances. Thus, the dietary preferences of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Hanuman might have differed based on their roles and the contexts of their actions.

Yuga Dharmas are part of the broader concept that differentiates the behavior and norms of human beings in different cosmic ages or Yugas. These norms could vary, leading to different dietary preferences as illustrated by Lord Rama and Lord Krishna.

Similarly, it is essential to recognize that dietary practices might have been different in ancient times compared to modern-day standards. The availability of food and cultural norms of that era could have influenced the dietary habits of these divine beings.

In conclusion, while Lord Rama was known to consume non-vegetarian food in certain contexts, Lord Krishna maintained a strict vegetarian diet, and Lord Hanuman was a strict vegetarian. Understanding these differences provides valuable insights into the diverse and complex nature of Hinduism and its figures.