‘Start simple and keep moving forward’
Adopted veganism: March 2009

This mantra is how Rithika Ramesh started her vegan lifestyle back nearly 16 years ago. Her commitment to veganism was inspired by a powerful moment. “I saw a calf being pulled away from its mother while the dairy farmer milked her, and I realised we are consuming the calf’s share of the milk,” she explains. “I hail from a vegetarian family, and we predominantly ate South Indian and Maharashtrian food, which is already almost vegan. Transitioning to this diet doesn’t need to be a hassle, even for those cooking for you,” she argues. For those interested in adopting veganism, Ramesh suggests a gradual approach with familiar foods, like dal and sabzi. “I would recommend first-timers to research both the movement and the dietary approach, and try to get through the first month on a vegan diet before introducing alternatives. Start small and avoid filling your diet with foreign ingredients,” she advises.

Lentils pack essential nutrients. REPRESENTATION PICS