Genelia D’Souza, a name that resonates with many as the beloved character H..H.. Hasini, has made a significant impact in the Telugu film industry with hits like “Sye,” “Happy,” “Bommarillu,” and “Ready.” After a successful stint in Telugu cinema, she transitioned to Hindi and Marathi films, becoming a household name. Last year, she made her much-anticipated return to Tollywood with the movie “Junior.” Despite her busy career, Genelia prioritizes family time, cherishing moments with her husband Riteish Deshmukh and their children, Riaan and Rahul.
However, it was a simple yet thought-provoking question from her son that led Genelia to adopt a vegan lifestyle. A passionate animal lover, she had a fondness for meat from a young age. One day, when her older son Riaan returned from school, he posed a question that struck a chord with her: “Mom, you love our dog Flash, but you eat chicken. What’s the difference? They are both animals, aren’t they?” This innocent inquiry prompted Genelia to reflect deeply on her dietary choices.
That moment of contemplation led her towards a vegetarian lifestyle in 2017, with both she and her husband deciding to steer clear of meat. Genelia has mentioned that avoiding non-vegetarian food has positively influenced her health. Initially, she continued to consume eggs, cheese, and other dairy products, but as time went on, she began to notice significant positive changes in her body.
Riteish Deshmukh, who was once an avid meat-eater himself, also made a pivotal change in his dietary habits. In 2016, he recognized that consuming non-vegetarian food was not aligned with his values and decided to stop eating meat. The couple’s journey towards a plant-based diet gained momentum during the pandemic in 2020, when they found themselves with ample time at home. It was during this period that they gradually eliminated dairy products from their diet, fully embracing a vegan lifestyle.
Being vegan entails avoiding all animal-related foods, including meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey, while opting for a plant-based diet. This shift, often referred to as veganism, emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Genelia’s transformation is not just a personal choice but also a reflection of growing awareness about animal rights and health benefits associated with a plant-based diet.
Genelia D’Souza’s journey to veganism highlights the profound impact that a child’s innocent question can have on a parent’s life choices. As she continues to thrive in her career and nurture her family, her commitment to a vegan lifestyle serves as an inspiration for many. With her husband’s support, the couple is looking forward to a healthier and more compassionate future, proving that lifestyle changes can emerge from the simplest of moments.
