Bhog Naivedya

" Bhog Naivedya delves into the origins of sacred foods in India and brings forth its incredible diversity. Brilliantly researched and engagingly written, Sujata's book is peppered with delectable tales from mythology, sumptuous temple lore, the aromatic linkages with kings and saints, mouth-watering food descriptions and much more. Travel from Badarinath Dham in the Himalayas to the Krishna temples at Mathura and Nathdwara to discover the lovingly-performed food rituals. Visit the Jyotirlinga of Kasi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi and Trimbakeshwar temple in Nashik and learn about Lord Shiva's favourite foods. Moving to the east of India, we see a dramatic change in the offerings, especially in the bhog offered to Goddess Shakti at Kamakhya in Guwahati and then at Kalighat in Kolkata. Peep through the vents in the kitchen walls of Puri's Jagannath temple and watch the preparation of Chappan Bhog in pots on clay chulhis (hearths), and thence to Tirupati to admire the elaborate food offerings to Lord Balaji. Wander into sacred groves and temples where serpent deities are worshipped with their choicest foods. Enjoy the colourful worship at ISKCON, where bhog represents a philosophy. R