No onions or garlic in curries; you won't find them even in the markets of this Indian city; reason

Onions and garlic are indispensable items in our kitchen. Curries without them are unthinkable. Even though the cuisines of different states in India are different, almost everyone uses onions and garlic. However, the way of the city of Katra in Jammu and Kashmir is a little different. Including onions and garlic in food is not allowed here.

Onions and garlic cannot be found in the markets of Katra. This is strictly banned. Hence, dishes containing garlic and onions cannot be found in the hotels of Katra. All this is done by strictly adhering to religious beliefs and devotion. This is because the pilgrimage to the sacred Mata Vaishno Devi begins from Katra. Onions and garlic are banned from the city to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage area.

Onions and garlic are considered tamasic foods in Hindu philosophy. They are believed to bring laziness, anger, and wrong thoughts to the mind and body. Hence, they are avoided during times of prayer, fasting, and spiritual practice.

Katra is the main gateway to the Mata Vaishno Devi temple. Therefore, there should be a Sattvic (pure and spiritual) atmosphere in Katra. Therefore, if anyone is caught selling onions or garlic in any situation in Katra, strict action will be taken.

Just because there are no hotels, dhabas or restaurants with a menu that includes onions or garlic does not make the food available here tasteless. Sattvic, fresh, tasty and nutritious food without the use of onions and garlic is very popular with devotees!