India has a large number of vegetarians and a rich cultural and culinary heritage. Vegetarianism is deeply ingrained in many Indian communities, their religious, cultural and moral beliefs. States like Rajasthan, Gujarat & Haryana have the highest rate of vegetarianism in the country, thanks to centuries old tradition and practice.
From the flavors of Gujarati thalis to the sattvic cuisine of Rajasthan, these places celebrate vegetarianism in all its glory. States with most vegetarians find a place in this article- a look into how cultural & historical factors make diets plant based by default.
Rajasthan: Known for its strong cultural and religious traditions, Rajasthan has the highest percentage of vegetarians in India with 74.9% of the population vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Rajasthan are Panchratna Dal, Gatte ro Saag, Dal Baati Churma, Papad ro Saag, Ker Sangri and etc.
Haryana: With a large vegetarian population, Haryana comes next with 69.25% of its people being vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Haryana are Sangri ki sabzi, besan masala roti, mixed dal and etc.
Punjab: Despite being famous for non-vegetarian dishes like tandoori chicken and butter chicken, Punjab has a significant vegetarian population with 66.75% of its people being vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Punjab are Paratha, Dal Makhani, Sarson da Saag, Makke di Roti and etc.
Gujarat: Gujarat is another state with high percentage of vegetarians, thanks to the presence of Jainism & Hinduism. 60.95% of the state’s population is vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Gujarat are Dhokla, fafda, jalebi, basundi and etc.
Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh has a mixed population with a large vegetarian following. 50.6% of the state’s people are vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Madhya Pradesh are dal bafla, poha, sabudana khichdi, chakki ki shaak and etc.
Uttar Pradesh: India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh has a large Hindu population and also a significant vegetarian population with 47.1% of its people being vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Uttar Pradesh are Baati Chokha, Tehri, Bhindi Ka Salan, Benarasi Ghugni, Aloo Badi Rasedar, Paneer Pasanda and etc.
Maharashtra: With diverse culinary traditions, Maharashtra has a large vegetarian population, especially in cities. 50.6% of the state’s people are vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Maharashtra are Puran Poli, Misal Pav, Batata Vada and etc.
Delhi: The national capital Delhi also has a significant vegetarian population with 39.5% of its people being vegetarian. Some of the popular vegetarian dishes of Maharashtra are Chole Bhature, Dal Makhni, Malai Kofta and etc.
