$JES 921 Book of Compassion Reverence For All Life Reference Book

Author(s): Pramoda Chitrabhanu, Pravin K Shah
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 44

7.- VARAKH (SILVER FOIL)
Pramoda Chitrabhanu Jain Meditation International Center, New York
07- Varakh (Silver Foil)
Do you know whether the varakh (silver foil) used in many Jain temples on the idols and in some religious ceremonies is vegetarian?
Do you know how the varakh on your sweets (mithäi) is manufactured? As a child, I remember always asking for those sweets that had silver foil on them. Even today children as well as adults go for sweets with varakh on top. Its popular appeal has a strong hold on people's mind, increasing the demand and thereby its supply. If people know the source and method of making it, I am sure they will never eat the silver-coated sweets again.
Let us find out the procedure from the article written by Beauty Without Cruelty (BWC), India branch. We are thankful to them for this valuable information.
If you look beyond the glitter of varakh, into the sheds where it is produced, and at the lives that are sacrificed to make this possible, you would think twice before buying that box of sweets topped with the precious silver foil!
Silver foil, or varakh, as it is generally known in India, adds glitter to Indian sweets (mithäi), supäri (betel nut), pän (betel-leaf), and fruits. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicines and on deities in many Jain temples. The silver-topped sweet is even served as prasäd in temples and on auspicious and religious occasions. Varakh is also used
in flavored syrups like kesar (saffron) syrup.
Several years ago, as suggested by BWC, Indian Airlines instructed their caterers to stop the use of varakh on sweets (mithäi) served on board their flights. Today, many ask for sweets without varakh, having realized the cruelty involved in its preparation.
THE BOOK OF COMPASSION
44