Bollywood actor and Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut recently inaugurated her new restaurant, The Mountain Story, nestled in the serene Himalayas. She highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating traditional food that has been passed down through generations.
Calling it a “tragic turn that our society is taking,” Ranaut expressed concern over India’s increasing reliance on food delivery and quick commerce apps. “Every village used to have its own cooking skills and cuisine. I think we should encourage that. In my small way, I am trying to promote cooking in my local area,” she told Brut.
Losing touch with traditional cooking
The actor emphasised how ancient culinary wisdom should not be lost in just one generation. “We believe, ‘now that we are working women’… every generation thinks this way, but that is not the case. There have been women before us who were much smarter-making pickles and preserving them. In Rajasthan, people have learned to cook food without using water. We cannot afford to lose this knowledge in just one generation. Ab main koshish karti hoon main ghee banana seekhu, makhan banana seekhu. Khair, one life (Now I am trying to learn how to make ghee and butter. Alas, we have only one life.),” she added.
The health risks of restaurant food
In the busy lifestyle that people live in the cities where they hardly get any time to cook nutrition food for themselves, it is also important to understand the risks of consuming restaurant food on a regular basis. There is no arguing when it comes to the comparison between home-cooked meals and restaurant meals.
Especially when a syndromes such as GBS are on the rise, it is essential to not only note but also implement home-cooking and consuming clean meals for the health of your gut and thus, your overall body. Gut is the source of all the strength in your body. You truly are what you eat. Which is why it is important to establish a healthy relationship with you mind and body.
The benefits of home-cooked meals
Home-cooked meals offer numerous health benefits, ensuring better control over ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods. They are generally lower in unhealthy fats, excessive sodium, and artificial additives found in restaurant or processed foods. Cooking at home allows the use of fresh, whole ingredients, preserving essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
It also encourages mindful eating, reducing the risk of overeating and weight gain. Additionally, home cooking fosters a deeper connection with food, enhances culinary skills, and promotes a balanced diet. Over time, it contributes to improved digestion, heart health, and overall well-being while saving money and reducing food waste
Ranaut’s effort to revive traditional cooking in her local area is a small but meaningful step in reconnecting people with their culinary roots. As she continues to advocate for the importance of indigenous food, her new restaurant stands as a tribute to the rich heritage of Indian cuisine.
