Acharya Prashant explains that cultural and social practices, such as the Hindu community's affinity for milk and milk products, are time-dependent and do not constitute the essence of religion. He notes that India's history as an agrarian economy made cows and oxen important, but these cultural practices must change in response to current realities. He defines the essence of religion as liberation from the ego, stating that living by a narrow self-concept leads to suffering. While folklore often depicts Shri Krishna's fondness for milk and butter, Acharya Prashant emphasizes that the timeless essence of Shri Krishna is found in the Shrimad Bhagwat Gita. He points out that the Gita contains no verses recommending milk consumption; instead, it provides a lucid explanation of how to live, work, and navigate the battles of life. He concludes that many people prefer to follow mythology and folklore because living by the discipline and sacrifice required by the Gita is more challenging.
