The right way to arrange meals in a Thali as per tradition

In India, the concept of eating a meal is believed to be sacred and this is the reason why everything related to food is treated with utmost respect. As per the Vishnu Sahastranam, Lord Brahma is associated with food as he is the creator of this universe and Lord Vishnu is believed to be the God who controls production of food, digestion and utilization of food, this is why before eating food we pray and begin the meal.

In fact, the culinary culture is incomplete without the mere mention of Thali and every dish and ingredient in the Thali has its own importance. But have you ever wondered what is the right way of arranging meals in a Thali as per the Hindu shastra. Here’s all you need to know about it!

As per the Hindu culinary heritage, food should be served only after the person dining is seated. After placing the Thali, begin with serving the anjaj like rice, roti or other flat breads in the center of the Thali. Dry foods like fries, fruits, dry sabzi/bhaji should be served in the lower right portion of the Thali along with all the curries, gravies on the upper right side of the plate. Even desserts that have rasa must also be kept on the right side of the plate.

On the upper left side of the rice and roti, serve the chutney, dahi along with papad or salad. Apart from that foods made with jaggery, achar or desserts like halwa must be served in front of the rice and roti. Another essential thing that must be served in front of the rice is lemon and salt.

Yes, the concept of eating an appetizer before a meal is old and dates back to Hindu mythology. According to the books of Indian food heritage, there were certain foods that were consumed after bathing and some time before enjoying a meal. But the appetizers include a combination of sour, pungent and salty ingredients. Thus, fruits, soups or drinks made with ginger, lemon and sendha namak were believed to be good appetizers that helped in boosting appetite.

It is believed that one should eat after bathing, adding sugandh, wearing washed and clean clothes followed by washing, hands, feel and mouth before eating.

Food must be served only after feeding the animals and birds in the house.

A small prayer of gratitude to the almighty and ancestors must be done before eating.

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