In Indian Culture Why Do We

Foreword

Indian culture is admired and respect all over the word for its beauty and depth. This book features in simple terms, the various aspects of both beauty and depth in this culture. Almost every Indian custom and tradition has either a scientific, logical, historical, social or spiritual significance. Understanding this lend meaning to an otherwise mechanical following of the customs which are often misunderstand to be mere superstitions that fade away in time.

A unique feature of Indian culture is its self-rejuvenating capacity. Customs that are obsolete are gradually dropped as seen in the instances of human sacrifice as well as animal sacrifice to a large extent, sati, untouchability etc. This culture tailors itself constantly to take the best of the modern, technological age without losing its roots.

It is this adaptability that has enabled India to be recognised as one of the world's oldest living civilisations. The customs and traditions selected for these pages are simple, enduring ones, that have lasted the test of time and are an integral part of many an Indian home even today.

Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayanandaji laid great emphasis on explaining the symbolism in Hindu dharma in a manner that was logical, scientific and appealing to modern man, thereby creating a magnificent cultural renaissance.

This book is dedicated to this great master who spent his entire life in raising the dignity of Indian culture and philosophy in the eye of the world.