Even if you do not like a few of the things on your banana leaf, you are bound to enjoy something. In addition, there are no forks, knives, or spoons provided. Adults in America often tell children not to play with their food, but it is quite a bit different here in India. Needless to say, it was quite an adventure eating with my fingers!
I actually had the opportunity to help prepare a Sadhya banquet, and it was a great experience! There were many people in the kitchen working together to prepare the meal. I helped by washing off the banana leaves while others in the kitchen prepared the other individual dishes that go on the banana leaves. It was definitely a group effort, and I would never recommend that someone try preparing Sadhya alone!
I think that the tradition of using disposable banana leaves (instead of plates) and your fingers (instead of a fork and spoon) to eat Sadhya is fascinating. It can teach you a lot about the local culture here. The meal is also completely vegetarian (which means no meat is served).
In India, people often treat animals as very important beings. But more on that topic later!
Until next time,
Micah
