We immigrated to the United States in 1964. Despite the unfamiliar food environment, especially in those early years, my wife, our two children, and I remained committed to our vegetarian lifestyle, often under stricter standards than what was common around us.

For many years, I consumed dairy products – milk, butter, yogurt, paneer, lassi – without questioning their origins. Never did I imagine that these seemingly benign foods could be linked to significant violence and suffering. That realization came unexpectedly, in a phone call from Pravin K. Shah of Raleigh, North Carolina, about 35 years ago.

Pravinbhai had just returned from visiting a nearby dairy farm. What he witnessed there – cruelty, neglect, and the systematic exploitation of cows – left him horrified. His voice trembled as he described the inhumane conditions. That conversation was a moment of awakening for me. Right then and there, decided to adopt a vegan lifestyle. As far as milk, wool, silk, silver foil, and leather are concerned, I became Vegan right away, but my forward and progressive journey continues, such as not eating figs, no use of ivory figurines, etc.

The transition was challenging. Plant-based alternatives were scarce at that time, and vegan cooking resources were limited. But I persevered, driven by the realization that living a life aligned with Ahimsa demanded more than abstaining from meat – it required avoiding all forms of animal exploitation.

My commitment didn’t stop at food. Gradually, I began eliminating animal-based products from every area of my life – clothing (wool, silk, leather), shoes, wallets, belts, home furnishings, even certain vitamins, and medicines. To this day, I continue seeking cruelty-free alternatives.

Years later, during a visit to a working dairy farm in Vermont with my friend Dilipbhai Shah, I saw firsthand the same horrors that Pravinbhai had described. That experience only deepened my conviction.

This journey to veganism has been one of profound spiritual growth and peace. Often, I reflect and wonder: Why didn’t I learn these truths earlier in life? Yet I remain deeply grateful. I salute Pravin K. Shah for opening my eyes and showing me a path that truly honors the essence of Jain values.