21-07-2025
Why Do Some Hindus Consider Masoor Dal As 'Tamasic' Or Even Non-Vegetarian?
Among some Hindus, particularly Bengali Hindus, red lentils or masoor dal, despite being plant-based, are often categorised as Tamasic or even non-vegetarian in nature
Pulses are an essential part of the Indian diet. No matter where you travel across the country, you will find some form of pulses served on every plate, especially in vegetarian households, where they are often paired with rice or roti. However, among Hindus, particularly Bengali Hindus, there is one pulse that stands out for its controversial reputation: the red lentil, or masoor dal. Despite being a plant-based food, it is often categorised as Tamasic or even non-vegetarian in nature.
In Hinduism, foods are divided into three categories: Satvik (pure), Rajasic (stimulating), and Tamasic (heavy or impure). Masoor Dal, like onions and garlic, are placed under the Tamasic category. These foods are believed to increase lethargy, cloud the mind, and promote negative or sensual thoughts. That is why their consumption is avoided by Brahmins, monks (sadhus), and ascetics (sanyasis), who strive for spiritual purity.
Link to Hormonal Activity
Masoor Dal were once forbidden to widows, especially in Bengali households, where strict vegetarianism was expected of them. Along with garlic, onions, and certain vegetables like pui saag, red lentils were considered taboo because of their high protein content. It was believed that they could stimulate hormones and increase sexual desire, something that widows were expected to suppress in the name of religious discipline.
There is also a legend from the Mahabharata that adds a mythological angle to this belief. During the Dwapar Yuga, King Sahastrabahu Arjuna of the Haihaya dynasty tried to steal the divine cow Kamdhenu from sage Jamadagni. When the cow was wounded and bled, it is said that masoor dal sprouted wherever its blood touched the ground. Because Kamdhenu is revered as a sacred, divine being, anything linked to her suffering, such as red lentils, was seen as impure. Hence, some Brahmins chose to avoid consuming them.
Gaudiya Vaishnavism
Bengali dietary traditions are heavily influenced by Gaudiya Vaishnavism. In this tradition, masoor dal are often compared to meat and considered unfit for rituals or offerings. This might be partly because of their dark colour, which Vaishnavas typically avoid. Black or red foods are often seen as inauspicious, and this aversion is reflected in both their culinary and spiritual practices.
Born of Demonic Blood
Another belief relates to the mythological tale of Rahu and Ketu. When Lord Vishnu severed the head of the demon Swarbhanu, his blood spilled to the ground. It is said that masoor dal sprouted from these drops of demonic blood. For believers of this tale, this association is enough to label the lentil as impure or non-vegetarian.
From Egypt To The Mughal Plate
Historically, masoor dal is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt around 2000 BCE. In fact, the name ' masoor ' is thought to have been derived from the Egyptian word ' Misra '. Lentils made their way into India over time and became part of the Indian culinary tradition. When the Mughals arrived in India, they adopted red lentils into their diet—perhaps further adding to their 'foreign' or non-traditional status in some Indian communities.
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First Published:
July 21, 2025, 13:03 IST
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