Clandestine meat eating in the Sikh community

Sikh vegetarianism - debate in Nairobi, Kenya.

First let me turn my attention to (once again!) vegetarianism within Sikhism. The practice of vegetarianism influenced by the 'Sant' fraternity has become so rampant in Kenya, that Sikhs who do want to eat meat have been driven out of their homes to eat meat clandestinely ! I know of friends whose wives do not allow them meat in the house so much so that they have become great cooks of meat and do so in secret hide-outs of their own, where they enjoy their meat with relish, and without knowledge of their 'home ministries'!

This became evident when we were invited for food in a Sikh home. The elder Sikh in the household made a remark along the lines that those 'granthis, percharaks and raagis who drink alcohol and eat meat' etc. etc. in a very derogatory manner. This was repeated a number of times before I was forced to speak up (as my daughters were present and waiting for my reaction!) with the words that 'I eat meat'. It had the desired effect! A debate ensued and ended with the 'elder' apologising that he is in no position to make such derogatory remarks about other Sikhs in this fashion. If he wants to be vegetarian, that is good. In fact 'excellent'. But if he then starts passing judgement on others and casting adverse aspersions on others, then, he is not gaining anything for himself. In fact he is adversing affecting himself, spiritually. First of all, we should not be judgemental of others and secondly we should know our facts before making rash statements about others' practices. For the record, the Akal Takhat Rehat Maryadha allows the consumption of meat, except that which is killed in a sacrificial manner, for example halaal and kosher. I shall not go any further into the debate. I am sure I have espoused my views elsewhere.

I joined the secret 'meat eating group' on two occasions and we had a great time. I advised them on cutting out their alcohol, which is forbidden, but freely enjoy their meat until such a time when they feel that they want to give it up. It is also a medical fact that one should lower or cut out the consumption of meat anyway ... BUT SIKHISM (MAINSTREAM) ALLOWS THE CONSUMPTION OF MEAT.

One got the impression in Kenya, that the stress on vegetarianism seemd more important than the keeping of unshorn hair! In fact one gentlemen at the debate promised to keep his hair and beard unshorn if his wife would cook meat for him at home!