The Value of Traditions

What traditions have you not kept that your parents had?

Traditions are representation of our culture and passed on from one generation to the next. These practices are best followed in the villages which ensure continuity.  However with most people living in cities these Traditions have become the responsibility of selected few. The city dwellers are too busy with their mundane routine To make time for cultural events. But little do they realise that they are not only missing out on traditons but also missing out on spiritual growth.

Let’s take a typical example of having bhajans/ kirtans once a week in the local temple. One may think what does this have to do with spiritual upliftment? However the simple act of singing melodious hymns provide a soothing effect on the mind thus relieving one of anxiety and stress. Furthermore the chants evoke sound energy that stimulates positive vibrations in the atmosphere making one meditative.

In addition to these benefits it nurtures creative talent of singing,  playing of musical instruments etc. And also provide a source of livelihood to the teachers and artisans who craft such instruments.

It is also a place to meet people from the area and a great source of networking.  Hence, by the simple act of visiting a temple once a week we avail of innumerable benefits for ourselves as well as indirectly provide encouragement to others.

Our traditions are our heritage and we need to devise ways to be involved in them as much as possible so that benefits of the same can be passed over to the next generation.