The Significance of the Banana Leaf

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A BANANA LEAF
Welcome to the land of idiosyncrasies! Welcome to my country India- a land in which the versatile banana leaf replaces the plates or platters on many a dining table. My country, India is a land abounding in peculiar practices and astounding aspects. Although I am an Indian, I am truly fascinated by the strange customs prevailing here for generations.   However, the eating habits of the people of my country have appealed to me the most.   Every state of India has its unique cuisine, which comes with its fair share of distinct flavors and tantalizing tastes. People eat these scrumptious delicacies in plates made of glass, silver, china or crystal. But what intrigues me the most is the custom of eating on a viridescent banana leaf, which is very much prevalent in the Southern States of India.
The South Indians consider it auspicious to eat of a banana leaf as well as serve food to their honoured guests on it. This timeless tradition serves as an excellent icebreaker too. Many curious tourists visit the fine dining restaurants of India certainly not expecting to be served on a leaf- least of all a banana leaf. Their first reaction is that of shock and complete confusion. Their bewilderment and amazement at the sight of the banana leaf is enough to kick start a conversation with their host or the courteous staff of the hotel.
Banana leaves were predominantly used during Indian festivals in the past and we use them today to relive traditions. They are also used to augment a touch of exoticness to special occasions.   Even though it is only a leaf with a rib flowing through the center, it never fails to steal the show and be the cynosure of all eyes time and again.
Partaking of food from a banana leaf not only saves the trouble of cleaning and washing up after a meal but also has many other advantages. Eating on a banana leaf can supposedly cure Parkinson disease as it contains DOPA (dihydroxyphenylalanine), a chemical part of a few...