'Food Culture in the Mahabharata' brings together the primary references to food in Mahabharata and presents them in a structured, thoughtful, and accessible manner
The Mahabharata is more than an ancient epic; it is a sophisticated civilizational record. While often studied for lessons on dharma and warfare, this book is among the first to decode the text through a 360-degree professional food technology lens.
Authors Shri Anil Dharmadhikari and Dr. Prabodh Halde analyze all eighteen Parvas to uncover a world where food functioned as a living science. They reveal structured ancient systems for irrigation, national food security, dairy management, and large-scale logistics. Across eighteen chapters, this work builds a technical bridge between Vedic insight and modern food science.
Key highlights include:
· Culinary Engineering: Insights from King Nala’s Pakadarpana.
· Safety & Science: Bhishma’s reflections on hygiene and the toxicology of Visha.
· Innovation: Sustainability models from Bhima and endurance nutrition used during warfare.
· Technical Data: Fifteen annexures documenting Vedic measurements, grains, fermented beverages, and processing methods.
Written in clear, grounded language, this book is designed for Gen-Z and seasoned scholars alike. It invites you to re-examine the scientific dimensions of our history and understand the engineering logic behind traditional Indian plates.
Supported by leading historians and food scientists, this research offers a new way of reading the Mahabharata—not just as literature, but as a structured record of sustainability and scientific reasoning. It is a vital addition to any library and a source of pride for every Bhartiya.
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Anil Dharmadhikari, Dr. Prabodh Halde
Anil Dharmadhikari is a researcher and award-winning author of Food Culture in Valmiki Ramayana, a work widely recognised across various forums. A respected Food Technologist, speaker, and corporate professional, he brings over 25 years of experience in food processing, food safety, and regulatory compliance. He holds a B.Tech in Food Science and a certification in Public Policy Management from the prestigious Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK). Anil is also a sought-after speaker and panelist at industry conferences.
Beyond his professional expertise, he is deeply passionate about Indic civilisation, Indian history, and ancient scriptures such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. His unique ability to blend technical knowledge with cultural insights establishes him as a distinctive thought leader.
Dr. Prabodh Halde is a seasoned food technologist and senior leader at Marico Ltd, with over 30 years of experience in Global Regulatory and Scientific Affairs. He holds a PhD in Food Technology along with dual postgraduate qualifications in Management, enabling him to bridge complex science with practical application.
In addition to his corporate role, he serves as a Professor of Practice at Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Agricultural University and is a LinkedIn Top Voice. He has authored 16 books spanning technical, regulatory, and motivational themes. His recent works, Accidental Food Technologist and the Prabodhika series, reflect his dedication to mentoring future professionals.
A committed social worker, Dr. Halde is a founder member of Udaan Welfare Foundation and Chairman of the All-India Food Processors Association (Western Region). He has mentored over 1,000 startups and students, with a special focus on empowering tribal youth from his native village, Lohagad.
