Can we end 'veg biryani' debate forever?

If biryani is a religion, a zillion number of worshippers may stand in line for the daily offerings! Biryani can accomplish more than what religion does; it can unite different sects of people under one table. 

It has a Persian origin. We never heard theories like it existed in Vedic times or about some references in holy texts. We never see parties complaining like how they claim Taj Mahal to be their own. We do not see them making noise for change of name with an ‘Indian’ one. But, yes, these people can surprise you! One such person avoids some outlets because of the religious tagline attached to it. 

   

 

Bonding over biryani

People say bonding over biryani is powerful. When the food is yummy, you see them at their cheerful best. No formalities, no judgements, just plain lovely souls enjoying some good time. What a wonderful world, isn’t it? But in every group, there could be spoilsports like me! You might be wondering what wrong have I done? I eat biryani rice loaded with vegetables. 

According to proponents of our ‘religion’, a dish called vegetable biryani does not exist. It is a marketing term we all have been using for long. People ask us to avoid this usage and call it pulao instead. Because it is an insult to what it is!

We agree that biryani is complete when there is meat flavour to it! But a dish called pulao already exists. For the information, ‘Veg Biryani’ and the proposed ‘veg pulao’ are two different entities. One is loaded with masala flavour and the other does not have even a spoon of it. So it is like saying two states should merge into one because people speak the same language.  

But perhaps we can give a new name because we understand it hurts the true followers. A name like ‘Veg rice’ may sound uncool but it does represent what is there inside! 

Friends, neighbours, and countrymen!

We follow the same ‘religion’. Some circumstances and personal calls are responsible for our choices. Can we stand together by accepting our diversities? Can we make the world more wonderful where people eat what they like without inhibition?

We apologize for the caste arrogant ones who peep into our table and judge our choices. We follow the same values - non-judgmental, sharing, and food-loving individuals. It happened that our offerings are different. But we have the same emotion, right? So, isn't it a good idea to settle this debate forever? How? By accepting each other as they are!