My path to veganism has been a journey—not a destination. It began in 1985, when I was a medical student at Boston University and received a scholarship to promote the use of soybeans in rural communities of Madhya Pradesh, India. During that time, I discovered soy milk as a substitute for dairy and tofu as a replacement for paneer. These insights led to the creation of a cookbook I co-authored with my mother, Laxmi Jain, which can be found at www.laxmijain.com.

My understanding deepened during JAINA conventions and visits from Jain spiritual leaders, where I became more aware of the industrialization of dairy production and its ethical and environmental implications. Inspired by Jain principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), I began integrating soy milk and tofu into my daily meals and gradually shifted my lifestyle.

Over the years, I’ve become over 90% vegan. I actively choose and promote plant-based options and, in my role as Chairman of JAINA’s Long Range Planning Committee, I’ve supported several vegan initiatives across North America.

While the transition has required intention, it hasn’t been difficult. For me, veganism is not about restriction—it’s a mindset grounded in compassion and sustainability. I believe in sharing my journey and offering support to others without imposing my choices. I respect that everyone walks their own path.

My hope is that one day, the words “Vegan” and “Jain way of life” will be synonymous. A plant-based lifestyle rooted in non-violence can serve as a powerful force for health, compassion, and harmony on our planet. Becoming vegan may begin with a small step, but it carries the potential to create lasting change—for ourselves, for animals, and our planet.