World Vegan Day highlights the benefits of a vegan lifestyle and encourages people to explore the positive impacts of plant-based foods on health, the environment, and animal welfare. In the spirit of the celebration, &TV artists including Smita Sable (Dhaniya, Bheema), Neha Joshi (Krishna Devi Vajpayee, Atal), Sapna Sikarwar (Bimlesh, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan), and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabi, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai) share their delightful stories of trying vegan dishes for the first time and discovering the flavours and enjoyment that come with vegan cuisine. From vibrant salads to savoury curries, their experiences show how fun it can be to try new foods and encourage fans to explore plant-based options. Neha Joshi, who portrays Krishna Devi Vajpayee in Atal, shares, “I have always been curious about new, healthy foods, so I recently tried a vegan pizza with cashew cheese, fresh veggies, and a gluten-free crust. It was fresh, light, and wholesome, sparking my transition to vegetarianism. It’s been a fulfilling journey for both my health and my values. I feel energized and enjoy the variety of vegetarian and vegan meals!” Smita Sable, known as Dhaniya in Bheema, recounts, “Once, I accidentally ordered a vegan Thai curry with tofu and vegetables—it was a delightful surprise! The coconut-based curry was so flavorful and light. That experience inspired me to try more vegan dishes for health benefits. Now, I enjoy mixing vegan meals into my diet as a healthy option.”

 

Sapna Sikarwar, who plays Bimlesh in Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, adds, “When I travel internationally, I often choose vegan food. One of my favourites was a vegan Buddha bowl packed with quinoa, roasted veggies, and tahini dressing. I even tried making vegan pasta at home with creamy cashew sauce and roasted vegetables. My daughter loved it too, and it’s now one of our go-to healthy meals!” Shubhangi Atre, aka Angoori Bhabi in Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, recalls, “During my recent trip to the USA, my daughter and I tried a black bean and quinoa vegan burger topped with avocado and a cashew-based sauce. It was incredibly flavorful! This experience inspired me to explore vegan options back home. Trying vegan meals can add excitement to our diets with new flavours and textures. Eat healthy, stay healthy, and be happy!”

 

Watch your favourite artists in Atal at 8:00 pm, Bheema at 8:30 pm, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 pm, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 pm, airing Monday to Friday on &TV!