Annalakshmi

Annalakshmi is an international chain of vegetarian restaurants operating in a unique concept of "Eat to your heart's content, Pay what your heart feels". It is run as a Non-profit organization.

The dining is a large buffet and accentuated with Indian art and handicrafts, and occasional classical dance and music performances.

Its adage "athithi devo bhava" meaning "the Guest is God" is the underlying factor. This is a tribute to the "Goddess of Plenty or Abundance, Annalakshmi".

History

First started in Malaysia in 1984, Annalakshmi has branches in Australia, Singapore and India. These ideals along with warmth and the service capture the imagination of diners.

It is guided by the inspiration of a monk, Swami Shantananda, disciple of Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh, who left India and founded it as the Indian vegetarian restaurant, in Malaysia.

At Annalakshmi, the food is prepared and served with love and the undiminished notion of service to humanity. The Volunteers strive to touch the hearts of the guests. Through the generosity of its guests helps to serve with the culinary and performing arts, but also help the underprivileged in India through "The Temple of Service" organisation, providing free food and healthcare.

Concept

It was polished and unpretentious, its success is the result of its underlying philosophy - serve, love, give. Based on the ancient adage - "Athithi Devo Bhava" meaning “the guest is God” manifested through the service of largely voluntary staff - housewives who know what it takes to prepare a wholesome meal and a team coming from all walks of life.

The ingredients for each item on the elaborate menu is traditional Indian cuisine.

Annalakshmi is a unique restaurant. It is different from several conventional eating outlets.

It is run largely by volunteer staff who joyfully serve in a variety of activities like cooking, serving, cleaning etc. They do not work in “shift hours”. They volunteer and dedicate their time because they find joy in the underlying philosophy of serve, love and give. Eating is considered a sacred ritual everyday in everybody’s life as the prayer goes — “thank you for today’s bread”. "Anna" means "food" and Lakshmi is the presiding deity. Hence the food served is “Prasad” - a sanctified offering. Any food or drink prepared lovingly, selflessly is delicious and nourishing, not because of its recipe and rich ingredients, but because of the spirit of self-less.

It has a branch in Perth called as "Annalakshmi on the swan", located on the Swan River.

External links

* [http://www.annalakshmi.org/| Annalakshmi's Official site]
* [http://www.annalakshmi.com.sg/| Annalakshmi Singapore]
* [http://www.annalakshmi.com.au/| Annalakshmi Australia]
* [http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,21598,21519940-5005384,00.html News.com.au]