Why do we wear marks (tilak, pottu and the like) on the forehead?
From "In Indian Culture, Why Do We..." by Swamini Vimalananda Radhika Krishnakumar. Copyright: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, Chinmaya Mission UK, www.chinmayauk.org The tilak or pottu invokes a feeling of sanctity in the wearer and others. It is recognized as a...
Why do we prostrate before parents and elders?
From "In Indian Culture, Why Do We..." by Swamini Vimalananda Radhika Krishnakumar. Copyright: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, Chinmaya Mission UK, www.chinmayauk.org Indians prostrate before their parents, elders, teachers and noble souls by touching their feet. The...
Why do we do Namaste?
From "In Indian Culture, Why Do We..." by Swamini Vimalananda Radhika Krishnakumar. Copyright: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, Chinmaya Mission UK, www.chinmayauk.org Indians greet each other with namaste. The two palms are placed together in front of the chest and...
Why do we have a prayer room?
From "In Indian Culture, Why Do We..." by Swamini Vimalananda Radhika Krishnakumar. Copyright: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, Chinmaya Mission UK, www.chinmayauk.org Most Indian homes have a prayer room or altar. A lamp is lit and the Lord worshipped each day. Other...
Why do we light a lamp?
From "In Indian Culture, Why Do We..." by Swamini Vimalananda Radhika Krishnakumar. Copyright: Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, Chinmaya Mission UK, www.chinmayauk.org In almost every Indian home a lamp is lit daily before the altar of the Lord. In some houses it is...
The Hindu Marriage – Vivaha Sanskara
Booking the hall, deciding on caterers, choosing the mandap and decorations, sending out the invitations, finding photographers, choosing the Priest - music, bridal outfits, nails, makeup, jewellery, matching colour schemes, groom's outfit -- Aaaaaaaah!! As the stress...