India is renowned for its large vegetarian population, with around 30-40% of its people following a vegetarian diet. This dietary preference is deeply rooted in religious beliefs, particularly among Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. States like Gujarat and Rajasthan have the highest number of vegetarians.
The influence of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who advocated for vegetarianism, has also played a significant role. Indian cuisine offers a vast array of vegetarian dishes, from lentil-based dals to vegetable curries, making it easy for people to maintain a meat-free diet.