Simon Parkes explores Jainism as one of the roots of Vegetarianism. Non-violence is the foundation of this religion and philosophy and determines the strict vegetarian way of eating and living. Simon meets Jains in India and in Britain and finds out how difficult it is to adhere to the principles in the UK of the 21st century.
Reading taken from Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found by Suketu Mehta.
Simon Parkes is joined in the studio by author of 50 Great Curries of India,Camellia Panjabi and novelist and author of The Heretic’s Feast – A History of Vegetarianism, Colin Spencer.
Simon Parkes visits the Parekh family in Calcutta and talks to Devendra Parekh and his mother Karuna as lunch preparations are getting under way.
Simon Parkes visits the Jain Temple in Leicester during a 9 day fasting period which coincided with the birthday anniversary of Lord Mahavira. He talks to Usha Mehta at home in Leicester.
Further information
Masala Zone 9 Marshall Street W1F 7ER Tel: 020 7287 9966
Books Maximum City : Bombay Lost and Found by Suketu Mehta published by Headline Review; New Ed edition, ISBN-10: 0747259690, ISBN-13:978-0747259695
50 Great Curries of India by Camellia Panjabi published by Kyle Cathie, ISBN-10: 185626128X
Vegetarianism: A history by Colin Spencer published by Grub Street, ISBN 1-902304-58-6
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites
Presenting The Food Programme has been Sheila's perfect job.