Vegan Like Me aims to profile fellow vegans, from all walks of life from everywhere in the world!  We’ve all been beginners and I think its important for folks to hear people’s stories in order to motivate themselves to keep going. This feature is intended to do just that.  If you are vegan and would like to participate, get in touch with me and I’ll be sure to send our questionnaire along to you.

Susmitha, vegan 9 years

Name:  Susmitha Subbaraju

Where do you live?  Bangalore, India

How long have you been vegan?  9 Years

What inspired you to take on a plant-based (vegan/vegetarian) diet?   Awareness. When I found out about what was happening in the dairy industry (I was always vegetarian before turning vegan), I knew I didn’t want have anything to do with that stuff any more. My husband’s support helped me stay on the path.

What do you love most about being vegan?  I love who I have turned into after going vegan. I’m a healthier and happier person. I’m an enthusiastic cook/baker. And I’ve experienced higher spiritual growth.

What three items do you always have in your pantry?  A variety of dried Grains, Beans and Dals (lentils).

What is your favorite vegan comfort food?  Bisi Bele Bath. It’s a South Indian dish made of rice, split lentils and a bunch of wholesome vegetables, all cooked together and simmered in a special spice mixture.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about taking on a plant-based (vegan) diet?  Find a good support system, either in your community or online and just go vegan. Cold tofu! Don’t think about it too much. It’s a decision which will bring you happiness.

Do you find anything difficult about being vegan?  Only the fact that all people around me aren’t vegan. It’s so easy and the right thing to do, it’s hard to see people not make that choice.

Any other comments you or words of wisdom you would like to add?  You can find me online at:  Blog: http://blog.veganosaurus.com
Etsy: http://artbysusmitha.etsy.com, Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/artbysusmitha and http://www.facebook.com/vegnosaurus
Twitter handles: @artbysusmitha, @veganosaurus  Thanks for reading and see you around the interwebs.

Thank you so much Susmitha!  It’s amazing to me that being vegan has now connected me with people all around the world.  It is so inspiring!