Book review 382 : Food & Faith by Shoba Narayan

Food & Faith

We’re all aware of the fact that food is the very essence of our existence. It not only satiates the hunger of our body but also satisfies the very essence of our soul. There’re various kinds of delectable delicacies available throughout the world which are prevalent across all forms of religious sects. To begin with, food is universal & doesn’t belong to any particular religion nor does it has any restrictions of any kind. It is shared commonly across all realms making it accessible to all. That’s what this book is all about.
Furthermore, the book moves on to question our beliefs about how do we perceive the perennial attenuation of religion which has been passed on to different generations as a hierarchical concept from time immemorial. Furthermore, it also concerns the unilateral thinking process of reaching out to various religious mindsets without harming anyone’s sentimental attachments in any particular manner. It anchors to religion whilst at the same time shares a common goal, to reach out to readers who love various kinds of tasty food dishes available throughout the human realm across all religions.

What really captivated me is the fact that it imposes a unique wide range of questions which are presented to us in a very realistic yet ascertained in a much thought-provoking way. As we progress further, I realised these questions made me think quite a lot & I took an instant liking towards the book. And as it turns out, I feel that’s the most salient aspect regarding a novel – the fact that it can touch the very essence of our being. And that according to me is all which really matters!

What is the role of religion in your life today? Do you pray? How do you pray? Do you commune with the divine via rituals? Is it through chanting verses in Aramaic, Arabic or Sanskrit? Or is it a comforting routine – going to the mosque, church or temple once a week or month? Is religion part of your identity? Or is something that you seek to distance yourself from? Is it an occasional activity that you do out of habit or because your parents ask you to? Or is it simply a connection with your heritage, home & ancestors? Do you think religion is a private act or can it be part of the public discourse? Are these questions making you uncomfortable?

Aren’t these questions amazing!
This is the very fundamental core of the religion called Hinduism which isn’t even a religion to begin with as many people claim it go be, but rather it’s rightly defined as a way of life. It’s mystical & magical in it’s every way. Language is beautiful. Writing style is good accompanied by a nice narration. Flow is smooth. Loved reading it. A must read, worth recommending to all!

Author: sumithchowdhury

I'm a writer

Leave a comment