Veganism Runs Counter to Hinduism

Ayurveda and Hinduism have always revered milk and dairy products, including yogurt, ghee, and butter, as essential components of a sattvic diet that nourishes both the body and the mind. The rejection of dairy in veganism runs counter to the scriptural, ritualistic, and health-related wisdom embedded in Hindu traditions.

1. Dairy as a Sacred Gift in Hinduism

Hindu scriptures regard the cow as sacred (Gomata), and her milk is seen as a divine gift, not just food.

The Ṛg Veda (6.28.5) praises the cow, saying: “She provides nourishment, she grants strength, and she is a source of immortality.”

Lord Krishna, the Gopala (protector of cows), himself loved milk, curds, butter, and ghee, reinforcing their sacredness. 

2. Yogurt and Ghee in Vedic Rituals

Pancamṛta, the five nectars used in temple worship and deity abhiṣeka, includes milk, yogurt, and ghee—all of which are excluded in a vegan diet. Ghee is an integral offering in yajñas (Vedic fire sacrifices), with the Ṛg Veda (4.58.3) declaring, "Ghṛtam (ghee) is the supreme essence of the gods."

3. Ayurveda and the Incompatibility of Veganism

Ayurveda classifies dairy as a Rasayana (rejuvenative substance) that supports ojas (vitality and immunity). Yogurt (Dadhi) improves digestion and ghee (Ghṛta) enhances mental clarity and spiritual growth. A completely plant-based diet lacks the nourishing, grounding, and lubricating properties of dairy, which are essential for balancing Vata and Pitta doshas.

Vegan substitutes like almond milk and coconut milk do not have the same medicinal properties as cow’s milk and yogurt.

4. Ethical Dairy Consumption vs. Industrial Dairy

Hinduism does not promote cruelty to cows but rather advocates ethical dairy consumption, as seen in traditional Indian villages, where cows are treated with reverence. The modern factory farming industry is problematic, but that does not invalidate the role of dairy in Hinduism—it merely calls for a return to Dharmic, ethical dairy practices.

Conclusion

Veganism is based on a Western ethical philosophy that does not align with Hindu Dharma and Ayurveda. While Ahimsa (non-violence) is a core Hindu principle, it does not necessitate rejecting dairy, which has been sacred, nourishing, and integral to Hindu life for millennia. A dharmic approach would be to consume dairy from ethically raised cows rather than abandon it altogether.