Get ready for a vegan blitzkrieg this weekend. Vegan experts, activists, nutritionists, physicians, scientists and others supporting the vegan movement from across the world will congregate in Chennai for the International Vegetarian Union (IVU)’s 42nd annual World VegFest. This is the first time that Chennai is hosting this International meet, and the third time that the fete is being held in India.
Founded in 1908, IVU is perhaps the oldest vegetarian society in the world. It holds a special significance for Indians as it was founded by the same people who partnered with Mahatma Gandhi to start the London Vegetarian Society. IVU is still head-quartered in London, and now has branches in 120 countries.
‘Freedom from diseases through non-violent food’ is the theme of this year’s fete. ‘Non-violent food’ is that which has been obtained without killing or hurting any creature. The fest does not advocate non-violent food as a spiritual practice, but as an informed choice towards good health. Elaborates Chennai-based industrialist C.K. Ashok Kumar, organiser of this festival and IVU’s International Council Member representing India and SAARC countries, “World over, people are going vegan, because research shows that a plant-based diet is the one best suited for humans. Research shows that it significantly reduces the risk of many diseases that play havoc with our health today, like heart disease, diabetes, cancers, etc, and improves life expectancy and quality of life. Veganism is also perhaps an effective way to save our environment, as it cuts down the pollution created by livestock.”
You can access information about the fest on www.ivuvegfestchennai.org or call 72000 86617/ 98400 81118. The entry fee is Rs. 500, and the event will be held at the TAG Auditorium, Anna University on November 29 and 30 from 10 a.m - 6 p.m.
