Mumbai: Garlic and onion are super common in most kitchens—they add flavour and even have some great health benefits. But when it comes to religious or spiritual practices, they’re seen differently. These two ingredients are called tamasic foods, meaning they’re thought to bring about heaviness or negativity. That’s why many people avoid them during certain rituals or special occasions.
There’s also a belief that garlic and onion are linked to Rahu and Ketu, two celestial entities. Because of this, they’re often skipped on fasting days or during religious events. But what’s the reason behind this? Let’s break it down.
Why Do People Avoid Garlic and Onion?
In many spiritual traditions, the food you eat is thought to affect your energy. Garlic and onion are considered tamasic, which means that they could interfere with your energy and reduce the impact of rituals like fasting or prayer. So, by avoiding them, people feel they can stay more spiritually connected.
When Should You Avoid Garlic and Onion?
Aside from big religious ceremonies, there are five specific days each month when it’s recommended to avoid these foods. These days are tied to deities or celestial events and are seen as times to focus on purity and mindfulness.
1. Amavasya (New Moon Day)
On Amavasya, people honour their ancestors by performing rituals or acts of charity. Meals eaten on the day should be simple. Tamasic foods such as garlic and onion are avoided. Lighting a lamp in the southern direction is also a common practice.
2. Purnima (Full Moon Day)
Purnima is all about connecting with the moon’s energy, which is considered pure. Eating garlic or onion on this day is thought to disrupt that energy. Many people stick to light, simple meals.
3. Ekadashi (Eleventh Day of the Lunar Cycle)
Ekadashi is a fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s believed that avoiding heavy or tamasic foods helps maintain a clear mind for prayer and meditation.
4. Ganesh Chaturthi
On this day, people honour Lord Ganesha by preparing special meals. Garlic and onion are usually left out to keep the offerings clean and pure.
5. Pradosh Vrat (Thirteenth Day of the Lunar Cycle)
Pradosh is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and many devotees fast or eat only sattvic (pure) foods. Skipping tamasic ingredients like garlic and onion is seen as a way to stay spiritually focused.
For many people, avoiding garlic and onion on these special days is more than just tradition—it’s a way to stay mindful and bring more intention into daily life. Whether you follow these practices strictly or adapt them to your own lifestyle, the idea is to create a sense of balance and purpose in what you eat and how you worship.
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