'No Exactly Upwas Ka Khana': McDonald's Shravan Special Menu With Burgers, Fries & Chocolate Shake Leaves Internet Divided

As the holy month of Shravan begins across India, many devout followers are observing it by adhering to a strict vegetarian diet. This often means avoiding not only meat and eggs but also ingredients like onions, garlic, and several regular staples. Amidst this, global fast-food chain McDonald's has launched a Shravan Special menu, providing vegetarian and onion/garlic-free options for customers observing the month. A photo of the menu quickly went viral online.

The special menu offers two main combos, each priced at ₹149. One includes unsalted fries and a strawberry shake, while the other substitutes the strawberry shake with a chocolate shake. Additionally, the menu features the Signature 7 Veggies Burger, priced at ₹219.45, and the Veg McCheese Burger, available for ₹265.

However, it is the "No Onion, No Garlic" (NONG) burgers that have generated the most buzz online. These burgers are specifically designed for customers who abstain from onions and garlic during Shravan. However, the proposed menu items have sparked debate on social media. Some questioned whether these offerings could be considered genuine fasting food, pointing out that burgers and fries are not traditionally associated with religious fasting.

There were also concerns about the inclusion of a chocolate shake, which is generally not part of strict fasting rules.

Traditional upwas ka khana typically consists of ingredients like sabudana, potatoes, fruits, dairy, and fasting flours, depending on regional traditions. The reactions to McDonald's special menu have been mixed. While some appreciated the availability of onion and garlic-free options, others jokingly questioned the inclusion of burgers and shakes during a fast.