तेल-मसाला मत खाओ

You use this phrase as an imperative. The word mat is a negative command. It’s like saying 'Stop doing that.' You can say it to a friend who is ordering a third plate of samosas. You can say it to yourself while looking in the mirror. It’s short, punchy, and very direct. It sounds like a doctor's order because it often is!

Use this when someone is feeling unwell. It’s the first thing an Indian mother says if you have a stomach ache. Use it at a dinner party if you are trying to be health-conscious. It’s also great for texting a friend who is complaining about a breakout or weight gain. It shows you care about their well-being in a very practical way.

Don't say this to a chef who just served you their signature spicy curry. That’s a one-way ticket to a very awkward dinner. Also, avoid using it in high-level business meetings unless you are literally discussing health. It’s a bit too personal for strangers. If you say it to someone enjoying a treat, you might sound like a 'party pooper.'

In India, food is love, but it’s also medicine. Ayurveda heavily influences how people eat. Deep-fried food is seen as 'heavy' for the soul and body. This phrase became a household staple as lifestyle diseases increased. It’s now the most common advice given by elders. It’s almost a cultural reflex to say this during the hot summer months.

You might hear Zyada tel-masala mat khao which means 'Don't eat *too much* oily-spicy.' Another variation is Bahar ka khana band karo, meaning 'Stop eating outside food.' If someone is being very polite, they might say Tel-masala kam kijiye. This uses the formal kijiye instead of the blunt khao. It’s the difference between a command and a gentle suggestion.