In Sanatan Dharma, food is considered almost as revered as a deity. Therefore, it is considered important to follow some rules while cooking and eating food. It is believed that those who cook and eat food respectfully get double the blessings during the day and quadruple the blessings at night. It is believed that the blessings of Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food, are always present in such homes, ensuring that food stores never run out.
According to Hindu beliefs, some rules should be followed while preparing food. People should be pure in body and mind before cooking. One should cook food only when the mind is satisfied. Food should always be prepared and stored in a clean place, inviting the constant blessings of Goddess Annapurna. According to the scriptures, chanting Bhojan Mantra before eating food is considered auspicious.
Chant this mantra before eating food:
Om sah naavatu, sah nine bhunaktu, sah viryam is the process of semen. Tejasvi Navadhitamastu ma Vidvishawa. , Om Shanti Shanti Shanti: .
Respect food: one
One should never disrespect food while eating and eating with the right hand is considered auspicious. Eating with the left hand is considered inauspicious and can bring trouble.
Direction while eating:
In Hindu tradition, time and direction of any work have special importance. Eating at the right time and in the right direction is highly recommended. In Hindu beliefs, the east direction is considered auspicious, hence it is considered good to face towards that direction while eating.
Donating Food:
If someone wants continuous abundance of food and money in his home, then he should always be engaged in charitable activities. Donating food is considered equivalent to a great donation. This involves giving daily donations to the common people as well as .mals and birds, thereby ensuring that there is never a shortage of food and money.
Right way to eat:
According to Hindu beliefs, one should always sit on the ground or on a high seat while eating. Eat as much food as you can and never leave leftover food in the plate. Eating while lying in bed or washing hands while handling food is discouraged. Such practices can lead to shortage of food and money in the house. People should always eat food with a pure heart and mind. Arguing during meal time is considered an insult to Goddess Annapurna.
