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Some Indian traditions say you shouldn’t touch certain people’s feet—old beliefs rooted in culture and myth, though many have evolved over time
In India, touching the feet of elders and respected individuals is a long-standing tradition believed to invoke their blessings. (AI Generated/News18 Hindi)
Touching the feet and seeking blessings is an important aspect of Indian culture. It is seen as a gesture of respect, humility, and devotion. In India, touching the feet of elders and respected individuals is a long-standing tradition believed to invoke their blessings.
But did you know that, according to tradition, there are certain people whose feet should not be touched? This may sound surprising, but it isn’t mere superstition, it’s rooted in deep cultural thinking, spiritual beliefs, and social logic. So, who are these people and why is touching their feet considered inappropriate?
Touching Feet In The Temple
According to astrology and spiritual belief, one should not touch anyone’s feet inside a temple. The temple is considered a sacred place where only one supreme energy, God, is to be revered. Bowing to anyone else in such a divine space is thought to unintentionally disrespect God.
Touching The Feet Of A Sleeping Person
Touching the feet of someone who is asleep is considered inappropriate. A sleeping person is believed to be in a different energy state, somewhat between life and death. In such a condition, their energy doesn’t align with the one who is awake. Hence, their feet should not be touched, as it may lead to an energetic imbalance.
Touching The Feet Of Someone Returning From A Crematorium
Traditionally, a person returning from a crematorium is considered to be in a state of impurity. It is believed that negative energies surround them during this time. Touching their feet, even by mistake, is prohibited as it could bring harm or negativity to both individuals.
Touching The Feet Of An Irreligious Or Immoral Person
If someone is known to lead an irreligious or unethical life, touching their feet is seen as an act of fault rather than virtue. According to spiritual beliefs, the negative aura of such a person may affect the one seeking blessings, resulting in unwanted consequences.
Touching The Feet Of One’s Wife
In some traditional communities, scriptures describe the husband as the guardian of the wife. Based on this belief, it was considered inappropriate for a husband to touch his wife’s feet. Though this thinking has evolved in modern times, it was once widely followed.
Touching The Feet Of Someone Performing Worship
During worship or religious rituals, a person is believed to be in direct communion with the divine. Touching their feet during this time is thought to disrupt their spiritual connection. It is also considered sinful, as it interferes with their devotion.
Touching The Feet Of Mother-in-Law And Father-in-Law
According to some customs, a son-in-law should not touch the feet of his in-laws. This practice is said to stem from the mythological story where Lord Shiva severed the head of his father-in-law, King Daksha. Since then, it is believed that a son-in-law should not bow to his wife’s parents.
Touching The Feet Of The Maternal Uncle
Traditionally, it is considered inappropriate to touch the feet of one’s maternal uncle. This belief originates from the story of Lord Krishna sparing the life of Kansa, his maternal uncle. Since then, a rule is followed that nephews should not touch the feet of their maternal uncles.
These beliefs, while rooted in ancient customs and stories, still influence cultural practices across various communities in India. While modern views continue to evolve, understanding these traditions offers insight into the values, logic, and spiritual reasoning that shape Indian society.
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