When I got this book, “Hindu Rites and Rituals’ by K. V. Singh from Indic Academy, it seemed destined for me. There was a huge expectation, and someone had really recommended it. I have in the past raised my voice against the corrupted representation of Hindu rituals by Bollywood and Indian advertising. I also write on Hindu festivals and rituals under #IgnorantHindu.
The book promised to shed light on many tricky but straightforward questions that would throw up in debates on Hindu rituals and traditions. Why cooking and eating is not encouraged during the eclipse? Japmala has 108 beads? Why is the Tulsi sacred? Significance of namaste? Why not face south while sleeping? What is the significance of chanting ‘Shanti’ thrice? And many more.
The book promised to explain the scientific reasoning about the rituals and practices I have been observing and following without questioning. In many places, when challenged, I have had no explanation. Now, someone promised to unravel the mystery and add the philosophical and scientific approach to Hindu rituals.
It has six segments that overlap. Gods, Goddesses & Nature. Important Hindu Dates. Rituals: Pujas and Yagnas. Temple Rituals. Traditions. And Miscellaneous.
KV SINGH TRIES TOO HARD
The book tries; in fact, it tries too hard to defend the rituals. However, it fails. As there is a complete vagueness of subject understanding and explanation. No real scientific backing. Hardly any cross-references. Singular theme magnified across multiple pages. Not to deny that to an average blind follower of Hindu rituals, this book may still seem a quick reference. Still, it is not worthy of a focussed reading. The vague, ill-defined vibrations, energy fields, positive vibes and sensations seem to be the support and answer for everything that gets questioned. What are these? Have they been documented? No, sorry, that is outside the scope of the book. In fact, the book does more harm than help the religion. The book tries to pass off the half-baked explanations that elders provide at home when questioned. But that itself has been corrupted.
And I question this a defensive mechanism. A religion need not defend, explain its rituals. It is a matter of belief unless one is trying to show one’s superiority. There is no need to cast doubt and or point out rituals of other religions as support to Hindu rituals. The book, at times, falls into this trap of comparative arguments.
HALF BAKED.
The book cannot even be referred to as the foundation for youngsters seeking further understanding of their rituals and traditions. I would prefer the youngsters don’t read this book. It will lessen the chances of getting a wrong impression about this wonderful world of Hindu rituals and traditions.
There is a definitive need for some serious work in this area and be presented in a far more engaging style. Till then, don’t waste your time and energies reading this silly half-baked attempt
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Blog/063/2021
