Every November 1st, the world celebrates’’ World Vegan Day’’, a day when even your meat loving uncle might secretly Google “vegan kottu near me.” And if you’re in Sri Lanka, this day feels a bit like that time you tried jackfruit curry for the first time and realized, “Wait… this is actually better than chicken”
Veganism isn’t just a trend anymore. It’s like that friend who came to the party just for one drink but ended up becoming the DJ, the decorator, and the one driving everyone home safely. It’s everywhere from fancy London cafes serving lattes to your neighborhood ‘’kade’’ where amma’s dhal curry is already 100% vegan and deliciously underrated.
So What’s the Big Deal About Being Vegan?
Well, it’s not just about eating like a rabbit though carrots are a solid snack. It’s about being kind to animals, the planet, and your body. Every time someone chooses a plate of rice and curry without the dried fish, the planet sighs in relief. Seriously scientists say cutting down meat helps reduce greenhouse gases, saves water, and protects forests.
Think about it when you go vegan, you’re not just saving animals. You’re saving the planet and making your doctor proud without even trying. It’s like winning three medals for the price of one curry leaf.
Sri Lankan Twist
Here’s the truth, Sri Lankans have been accidentally vegan for centuries. Our grandmothers were plant based long before it was cool. ‘’Gotu kola sambol, parippu, polos, ala thel dala, mallung’’ all vegan legends hiding in plain sight.
Even the humble hopper can join the party just skip the egg and boom, vegan masterpiece. If you tell a foreigner that our jackfruit curry can taste like pulled pork, they’ll think we’re joking. Until they try it and suddenly want the recipe and citizenship.
Going Global with the Greens
Around the world, veganism has become a lifestyle, not just a diet. Celebrities are turning to plant-based eating for health and sustainability. Big brands are launching vegan menus faster than you can say “no cheese, please.”
But at the heart of it, veganism isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress making small, mindful choices that add up. Maybe you start with one vegan meal a day, or swap milk for coconut milk.
So This World Vegan Day,
Try something new. Maybe make your favorite curry a little greener. Celebrate the jackfruit, the dhal, the banana blossom. Share a laugh, a meal, and a little love for the planet.
Because being vegan isn’t about rules, it’s about care.
And if you can save the world while eating polos curry, that’s not just veganism. That’s Sri Lankan heroism.
Written By: –
Rtr. Kihansa Wickramasinghe
(Junior Blog Team Member 2025-26)
Design By: –
Rtr. Nethmini Pathirana
(Junior Blog Team Member 2025-26)
