HINDU FASTS & FESTIVALS : - 22-3.

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22. The Kavadi 3.


The Kavadi-bearer observes strict celibacy.

Only pure, Sattwic food is taken; he abstains from all sorts of intoxicating drinks and drugs.

He thinks of God all the time.

Many of the Kavadi-bearers, especially those who do it as a spiritual Sadhana, impose various forms of self-torture.

Some pass a sharp little spear through their tongue, which is made to protrude out of the mouth.

Others may pass a spear through the cheek.

This sort of piercing is done in other parts of the body also.

The bearer does not shave; he grows a beard.

He eats only once a day.

The spear pierced through his tongue or cheek reminds him of the Lord constantly.

It also prevents him from speaking.

It gives him great power of endurance.

Swami Sivananda
 To be continued  .....




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