Pilgrimages and Spirituality

Posted on August 10, 2009 in Pilgrimages and Spirituality

India is a land of spiritualism and pilgrimages. Many Westerns are drawn by spiritualism taught by its sages and even the Indians take refuge in it to escape the hardships of material existence. A devout Indian undertakes pilgrimage to various places in order to seek God’s blessings.

It is not uncommon to see a Muslim going on Haj to Mecca and Madina and Hindus paying visits to various temples located in different parts of the country. The Indians are no doubt very religious overall and religion plays an important role in their daily lives.

The West has much to offer in terms of materialism, but the East is rich in spiritualism. Although now the growing trend in the East is also towards materialism, yet one cannot negate the historical ethos of the country and the spiritual contributions made by various well known philosophers such as Rabindranath Tagore, Jiddu Krishnamurthi and sages such as Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira.

Why spiritualism is essential in our daily lives?
The glamor of the materialistic world appeals to all. People would like to possess as many things in their lives as possible. They would like to have a car, a house, nice clothes to wear, gadgets to carry out their daily tasks and so forth and so. There is no end to this desire for possessions. A human being is valued by what he owns. A small car may not be sufficient for a person. He or she would like a big car and preferably a well known brand. The rat race to have as many things as your neighbor continues. If a person does not own certain things which identify him or her as being rich or well-off, then he or she is looked down upon by society. Often this constant pursuit of material things leaves a person drained out and prevents him or her from enjoying life. He or she gets fed up with life and is in search for spiritual bliss and happiness.

Many Westerners come to India and visit places like Benares in search of spiritual bliss. They need a change from their materialistic Western world. Compassion, concern for others, friendliness and approachability is what they seek. They want a helping hand to assuage their tired minds.

Pilgrimages in India
People in India undertake various pilgrimages on a regular basis. They visit various temples to seek the blessings of various deities. Many elderly people go to Badrinath and Kedarnath in the Himalayan range of mountains. Even the young visit these places of pilgrimages to fulfill their wishes and dreams.

The Hindus also visit the Mata Vaisho Devi shrine and also pay visit to Baba Amarnath’s Holy Cave (Sri Amarnath Yatra) .

The Sikhs offer their prayers at the Golden temple in Amritsar. The pilgrimage to this place is again to seek blessings of their Guru.

The Muslims go on Haj to Mecca and Madina. Once in their lifetime they pay a visit to these places.

The Buddhists visit Bodhgaya in Bihar the place of enlightenment. Lord Buddha received enlightenment under this tree. The holy place of Sarnath, located near Varanasi, is also visited by the Buddhist pilgrims.

India is land of many religions. All religions preach peace and harmony. Religion plays an important role in the life of an Indian. He or she goes on pilgrimage to ensure their well-being. Many tourists also visit the country to visit various shrines and meet their religious gurus, to seek spiritual guidance and blessings.

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