Closely linked to festivals is the Indian culinary philosophy. Indian food is an alchemy of flavors, deeply rooted in Ayurvedic principles of balance. A traditional Thali (platter) is a microcosm of the universe, containing all six tastes—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Food in India is "prasad" (offering), medicine, and love all at once. The act of eating with one's hands is a tactile connection to the earth, believed to engage the senses and aid digestion.