Palitana of Gujarat becomes first city in the world to ban non-veg food

Gujarat's Palitana became the first city in the world to ban non-vegetarian food. The sale and consumption of meat, as well as the slaughter of animals for meat, are prohibited by law in this city.

This decision was made on the demand of Jains in Palitana, which is one of the most significant Jain pilgrimage sites in the world.

The ban came followed by the ongoing protests by Jain monks, who demanded the closure of around 250 meat shops in the city. The city attracts lakhs of pilgrims and tourists every year.

Additionally, it is known for being the first legally vegetarian village in the world.

Palitana is home to 900 temples on a hilltop, making it the largest Jain pilgrimage site in the world. Located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, this city has a total of around 3,000 temples.

The main temple at the top of the hill is dedicated to Adinatha (Rishabhadev), the first Tirthankara.

One has to climb about 3,800 steps to reach the top of the mountain. Apart from Jain followers, Hindu and Muslim believers also visit the mountain. Not only Jain temples, but Muslim Dargahs can also be found in various parts of this village.