ADHI SIDDHA by Sashi Vadivale

The Hindu religion is rich with customs and tradition. Temple worship and religious observance mostly revolves around God. There are some observances in our religion that revolves around ourselves. Each Hindu’s biological milestone and important turning point in life is marked by a ceremony. The grandeur of the ceremony is up to the individual, but tradition has guide lines on them. Prior to birth till death, each important milestone is marked in a Hindu’s journey in life.

These events can be as simple as prayer in a home shrine or by an elaborate pooja.

Some of these ceremonies would be followed by a feast depending on the grandeur of the ceremony. During these pomp occasions, work load would be plenty. Family and friends would draw close to lend support, thus bonding the ties among them. It also reminds each family member of his duty towards the family. The role of the maternal uncle is important during the wedding ceremony as there are duties specifically to be discharged by him. During funerals, the in-laws of the deceased family are to lend support by providing meals on the funeral day.

Most of the rites of passage require the support of the priest. The priest invokes God, Devas (guardian angels) and at times the ancestors to bless the celebrated individual’s progress. The priest is then rewarded with cash and gifts. Our scriptures also encouraged to feed those less fortunate during this time. This nurtures charity in the giver.

Some of these rites not only help the celebrated individual, but also the family members. Funeral rites do not only prepare the deceased to the inner world; the rituals performed by the family members in the funeral provide a way to mitigate their sorrow.

These rites in my point of view, give me a sense of belonging to an ancient religion.

Funeral rites were not only as way to say good bye to loved one, but brought me closer in my understanding of Hinduism. Weddings I truly enjoy as I get to party and show off my best traditional attire. The ceremony also enlightens me that God is present in every important journey in life. By practicing these rites, I feel that each important step in life is bringing me close to Him.

“The essential samskaras are the rites of conception, the three-month blessing, hair-parting, birth, name-giving, head-shaving, first feeding, ear-piercing, first learning, puberty, marriage, elders' vows and last rites.”

- Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami