Indian cooking is an art, derived over the centuries from a variety of sources. Factors such as Religion, health, customs and even climatic conditions have played their part. Mealtimes in an Indian household are like ceremonial occasions. The food is a gift from the Deity and should be prepared with due respect. Indian cooking is an art, derived over the centuries from a variety of sources. Factors such as Religion, health, customs and even climatic conditions have played their part. Mealtimes in an Indian household are like ceremonial occasions. The food is a gift from the Deity and should be prepared with due respect.