Category Archive:India

The Beggars’ Lunch – A unique Goan tradition

sduncan post on January 29th, 2013
Posted in India Tags: , ,

By Elaine Peterson

Although examples of giving to the less fortunate can be found in many Indian traditions and customs, I would like to talk about a unique tradition that is found among the Goan Catholic families during wedding preparations. Goa is predominately a catholic state in India, having been occupied by the Portuguese who converted a large portion of the population. English is widely spoken and the western way of dressing is the norm.

A couple of days before the wedding, usually on a Tuesday, a lavish feast is prepared and 7 or 9 poor people in the village are invited to Read the rest of this entry >>

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Reciprocal generosity found through the practice of Pindapata

sduncan post on January 29th, 2013
Posted in India Tags: , ,

By Avril Henry

In ancient India, there existed a very vibrant community of giving amongst the Theravada monastics and the lay people. The form of giving was called Pindapata, which was the practice of gathering food or “alms-gathering” by the monastics. As we will soon see, this generosity was believed to be “full circle” as those that provided food also felt they gained something from their gesture.

The Theravada monastics are from one of the oldest schools of Buddhism and while it began in India, today we are only seeing it practiced in Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka. They never asked for food and only took it when offered. Read the rest of this entry >>

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Philanthropy in India

sduncan post on January 29th, 2013
Posted in India Tags: ,

By Laurie Gray

When looking at philanthropy in different countries it becomes evident that the reasons why citizens choose to give financial and of themselves can be extremely diverse. However, countries goals with these actions of giving and helping those within their society are quite similar.

While looking at philanthropy within India’s culture, it is important to understand that much of the actions done by citizens are focused primarily on their religious choice. Much of the India’s religion, like Hinduism and Buddhism are Read the rest of this entry >>

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Kanyadaan

sduncan post on January 29th, 2013
Posted in India Tags: , ,

By Kavita Dogra

Surrounded by bright colours, Bollywood tunes, a crowd of people and loads of food a Hindu wedding can be an overwhelming experience. Everyone is dressed in elaborate traditional clothing; and there is an incredible feeling of joy and excitement in the air that is welcoming for anyone attending. At a typical Hindu wedding similar to most others the bride is the center of all attention but not just for one day. There are about 4 events but some of these events like Mehndi (Henna) and Sangeet (Music) are combined into one and done separately on each side. Read the rest of this entry >>

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Sai Baba of Shirdi and Anna Dana

sduncan post on January 29th, 2013
Posted in India Tags: , ,

By Katherine Gibbons

In Indian society one of the most common forms of giving is anna dana, the sharing of food with others. This is part of one’s religious duty (dharma) and is a tradition started by the Sai Baba. Sai was an Indian, considered to be a saint by Hindu and Muslims. Sai encouraged charity and the importance of sharing with others. He said: “if any men or creatures come to you, do not discourteously drive them away, Read the rest of this entry >>

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The Story of Asoka

sduncan post on January 29th, 2013
Posted in India Tags: , ,

By Coleen Crncich

Buddhism in India would not be complete without including the story of the great emperor Asoka who reigned over the largest empire in India up to that time. (c.265-238 B.C.E.)

“The legend associated with the emperor goes that his birth had been predicted by Buddha.” Asoka grew to be a gifted warrior and statesman which angered his elder brothers who worried that he would become the next emperor. His oldest brother Prince Susima, convinced his father, Emperor Bindusara, to send Asoka away to Read the rest of this entry >>

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