Understanding Cow Culture and Meat Consumption in Kerala
The question Is there any Hindu left in Kerala who hasnt tasted cow meat ever? is often seen as trivial and even offensive, reflecting a lack of understanding of local traditions and religious beliefs. Keralites, including Hindus, have a rich and diverse culture when it comes to food practices, with significant differences in beliefs and practices across various communities.
Cow as a Sacred Animal
From a biological perspective, cows are herbivores, while human beings are omnivores capable of digesting a wide range of foods. Therefore, the notion of consuming bovine meat seems amusing, especially from a religious or cultural standpoint. In Kerala, particularly among Hindus, cows hold a sacred status. Many Hindus, including Brahmins, do not consume beef due to religious and cultural reasons, often seeing cows as symbols of nurturing and divine life.
Religious Beliefs and Cultural Practices
As a Hindu who has never consumed cow meat but has had beef in the past, I hope this clarifies that at least one individual exists who adheres to such principles. Brahmins, in all their variety, are predominantly vegetarian and do not eat any meat. In the past, many Nairs, especially Nair women, were vegetarian. However, this trend has changed over time, with Nair women now consuming beef. The Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma) TV channel showcases beef cooking shows, indicating a shift in cultural norms.
Meat Consumption in Kerala
No cows are slaughtered in Kerala. Slaughter is limited to buffaloes. Moreover, only a small portion of the population consumes meat, with Brahmins, in particular, being vegans. Generalizing about the entire population is misleading, as people have the freedom to choose their food according to personal beliefs and cultural practices.
Specific Groups and Ethical Considerations
There are particular groups in Kerala who abstain from consuming meat entirely, with some households considering it unethical. These practices might apply to as much as 5-10% of the population, which amounts to approximately 3.5 million people. This is a significant number that represents a substantial portion of the Keralite community.
Respect and Care for Livestock
Not all Keralites treat their cattle as sacred, but many do, considering them as family members. Unlike in other parts of India, Keralite cows do not roam the streets in search of food. They are well-cared for, with daily baths provided to ensure their cleanliness. When passing by, there is no need to cover one's nose, as these animals do not emit foul odors. Instead, they smell pleasant, reflecting the deep love and respect many Keralites have for their cattle.
In conclusion, the cow culture in Kerala is complex and diverse, reflecting a range of beliefs and practices among different communities. Generalizations and stereotypes should be avoided, as the reality is much more nuanced and varies from family to family, community to community.