Eid Al-Adha celebrations feature festive vegetarian recipes and brain‑boosting gatherings

Vegetarian dishes such as sheer khurma, zarda pulao, stuffed dates, chickpea curry and vegetable biryani are highlighted as popular festive foods for Eid al‑Adha in India, offering families sweet and savory options during the holiday.

Neuroscientists in the United Arab Emirates say that family and community gatherings during Eid provide significant mental‑health benefits. Dr. Eleni Margioti notes increased oxytocin release, reduced amygdala activity and heightened pre‑frontal cortex engagement, which together lower stress and improve cognition. Clinical psychologist Maryam AlBarguthi adds that even brief, daily connections of 20‑30 minutes—through shared meals, conversation or activities like cooking—can act as an emotional recharge, especially for expatriates far from their families.