Why Vegan?
At Omshala, we are inspired by and committed to the Vedic principle of Ahimsa, one of the ideals of Hinduism that originated in the Vedas more than 4,000 years ago. In Sanskrit, Ahimsa translates as “not to injure” but is more commonly defined as “non-violence”. Ahimsa means to practice non-harming, and to actively integrate compassion into all aspects of daily life - in our thoughts, words and actions to others and to ourselves. Practicing Ahimsa develops mindfulness and naturally guides us towards a more conscious lifestyle.
At Omshala, it is our priority to uphold the intention of Ahimsa by making conscious choices that support the non-harming of all living beings, including animals, and the environment. It is for this reason we do not use animal leather in our products.
We choose not to support the harsh conditions that animals must endure domestically on factory farms and in countries where animals are exploited as a result of non-existent or non-enforced animal welfare laws. We choose not to support an industry that kills animals unconscionably. We choose not to support the dangerous conditions of the tanning industry that subjects workers, communities and the environment to toxic waste that poisons and pollutes. And we choose not to support factory farming that is the leading contributor to global warming, water scarcity, and resource depletion.
At Omshala, we are proud to support an eco conscious and cruelty-free lifestyle.
It has been an enlightening process sourcing the innovative, unique and beautiful materials used in our handbags and accessories. We are astonished by the vast selection of alternatives to animal leather, and look forward to an ongoing exploration into new, sustainable products in the future. We understand that life is about making choices, and that it is vital to respect each individual’s decisions without judgment.
Our hope is to enrich and inspire - that others will resonate with and embody the principle of Ahimsa with deep compassion in their hearts, and take into consideration the universal impact of their thoughts, words, and actions in order to live a more mindful life.
अहिंसा परमॊ धर्मस तथाहिंसा परॊ दमः।अहिंसा परमं दानम अहिंसा परमस तपः।अहिंसा परमॊ यज्ञस तथाहिस्मा परं बलम।अहिंसा परमं मित्रम अहिंसा परमं सुखम।अहिंसा परमं सत्यम अहिंसा परमं शरुतम।।
Ahimsa is the highest virtue. Ahimsa is the highest self-control.
Ahimsa is the greatest gift. Ahimsa is the best suffering.
Ahimsa is the highest sacrifice. Ahimsa is the finest strength.
Ahimsa it the greatest friend. Ahimsa it the greatest happiness.
Ahimsa is the highest truth. Ahimsa is the greatest teaching.
Translated from Mahaprasthanika Parva, the 17th book of The Mahabharata