Category: Our Experience

Alms giving without discrimination

“Athiti is what ever creature is hungry and comes on to you, at that (kakabali-crow offering) time, whether it is human or a bird, beast or insect.

All these seek food. The real Athiti that you get, (but) you do not regard as such. These have come to you in lakhs.

Nana! give up your rotten interpretation*. At kakabali, take plenty of boiled rice outside the house and leave it there.

Do not shout or call for any, nor drive away. Whatever the creature that comes to eat, let not that disturb your mind. You get thus the merit of feeding lakhs of guests. “

Baba in BCS para 309 to N G Chandorkar alias Nana

*The phrase “Atithi Devo Bhava” translates to “The guest is akin to God,” highlighting the reverence and care that should be given to guests.

In Hinduism, welcoming guests, especially unexpected ones, is considered a sacred duty. This practice is deeply embedded in the culture and traditions, emphasizing the hospitality that should be extended to guests. Here are a few key aspects:

Rituals and Practices for Welcoming Guests

1. Traditional Welcome:
   – Guests are often greeted with a warm “Namaste,” a gesture of respect and reverence.
   – In some households, a ceremonial welcome called Aarti might be performed, where a small lamp is waved in front of the guest, accompanied by singing or chanting.
   – Some families may apply a small mark (often a red dot known as tilak) on the guest’s forehead as a sign of blessing and respect.

2. Offering Refreshments:
   – Guests are typically offered water, tea, butter-milk or other beverages upon arrival. This practice signifies hospitality and the intention to make the guest feel comfortable and valued.
   – Following this, guests may be served snacks or meals, often including traditional and home-cooked dishes.

3. Providing Comfort:
   – Hosts ensure that the guests have a comfortable place to sit and rest. Clean towels, refreshments, and any other necessities are provided.
   – In many cases, if the guest is staying overnight, special arrangements are made to ensure their comfort, including clean bedding and private space.

4. Treating Guests with Respect:
   – Throughout the visit, guests are treated with utmost respect. Conversations are often centered around the guest’s well-being, their travel experiences, and any needs they might have.
   – Hosts may also offer small gifts or tokens of appreciation when the guest departs, further signifying the importance of their visit.

These practices not only reflect the value placed on hospitality in Hindu culture, but also emphasize the spiritual aspect of serving and honoring guests as part of one’s duty (dharma).