Monday, March 7, 2011

Rangoli


This is the Rangoli to be drawn in front of the Mandasana, everyday.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Touching the Feet of Elders.

Today i read an article on feet. In India touching the feet of elders is to show respect to their age seniority, knowledge and to get their blessings. It also , in a way, gives the message to youngsters to be humble in regard to elders, parents, grand parents , teachers and any elderly person.
When one bows his/her head the elders bless the the person.
When elders are present the younger are not supposed to stretch their legs , cross the legs or put their feet up, this according to Indian standards , show of disrespect .
There is also this custom of removing the shoes outside before entering the living area of the house. This is just for cleanliness and to avoid spread of dirt from outside. This in the real sense is a good habit. India being a tropical country infection spread rapidly. After entering the house from any outside or after long walk, we do wash our feet before entering the house. In very hot places water is kept outside near the front door for this purpose. I think this is a good system and ought to be followed, even today.
Many a time I hear some say ,I cant bow down to, touch the the feet of that person he has such dirty feet. Does one really touch ones feet especially a person with knowledge or person who is much much older and experience to see his feet. NO, we bow down to the wast experience of the person, the persons knowledge or the seat he occupies. Bowing to touch an elders feet also signifies, the humble nature of the individual.