A Hindu Perspective by Balliram Chadee. M.Hin.

www.thehanumanmission.com. bally@thehanumanmission.com or Bally 416-992-2487.

This is the 24th in a series of articles by Dr. Balliram Chadee and Hotshots Newspaper to bring a Hindu Perspective to educate our community. Comments and suggestions are welcome.

  Question: Reality vs. Tradition: How do you see it as a Hindu?

Ans: This bi weekly article on “Perspectives of Hinduism” has raised so much curiosity and awareness among the many thousands of readers, that it is safe to say neither Roy nor Balliram would have expected such an amazing response and feedback. Firstly we thank all readers, of all religious backgrounds and practices who have read and who have shared their views with us, whether they agreed or not. I must confess all communication with readers so far, have been respectful, polite and cordial, with mutual dialogue. So again thank you readers, we value your opinions. I have said we try to keep these articles practical, without writing too deep in detailed Hinduism where the kids and other Caribbean Canadians would find a difficult time understanding a short, simple and helpful message. This approach seems to be working, so we would keep writing for you.

A common question I get all the time, deals the practices that we follow or should…. is this Reality or Tradition ? The answer to this question depends on who you talk to and how objective that person is. For the sake of this article, we would take it from a spiritual or religious viewpoint for simplicity. We are Hindus in Canada today, irregardless of where we came from. The doctrines and tenets of Hinduism are the same worldwide, man has modeled it different to suit his own needs as he sees fit. If you disagree with me, look at what you see today here in Canada at a wedding, funeral or puja for example…is it consistent? it is different? Is it confusing? Why is it? All rites and rituals prescribed in Hinduism are the same, all referenced to the same scriptural Vedic texts, so how can it be different? In some cases geography has played a role in the practices over the years, a person from Trinidad might do some things different to a person from Fiji , or Guyana , or vice versa etc , you get the point . However, what is important, is to follow your traditions the way you have been taught, been exposed too, or the way your family has carried on these same practices over the years, long before you migrated to Canada .

As Hindus, we must remember, that our version of religious and spiritual service, customs and practices are over 175 years old in the Indian diaspora or in the Caribbean Region from where most of us came. It has been truly tried, tested and it stood the test of time. It is our obligation and that of our forefathers, that we preserve these customs and traditions here in Canada . Obviously we have to be practical, realistic and sensible about how we go about doing these activities. We cannot get fresh puja items, flowers and leaves to conduct puja, so we have to used items that are in a cooler, fridge or freezer…right? Does this mean that god would not answer our prayers? Would we be punished for the reality of the life we live? If the situation was different, we would all do otherwise. What about practices where for puja etc, we only used cow's milk that was over 21 days old, remember? Do any of you know how old the milk you just used in your puja was? Is it “clean”? Is it usable? Are we violating tradition? You see my friend we live in a Practical world, NOT a REAL world , and so our attitudes and concepts must also be practical. Sure we follow our traditions the best ways we know how, but the things which we have no control over, we cannot let interfere in our dedication to our lord and master. Do what you know is right! Your parents and grandparents, survived through these traditions and practices and Caribbean Hinduism still stands strong, second to none in the world today. Do not ever doubt yourself and your heritage, a legacy was created for us by those before us, enjoy it, relish in it and most of all, preserve it…it is your duty and your right. Using cotton for havan in a basement in Canada does not bring fewer rewards that using a big heap of mango wood outside in the Caribbean . It is how you pray, your dedication, sincerity and devotion to God. This is the only thing which matters.

Many people will talk and tell you what is real vs. what is tradition. I am telling you what is practical! . Time will keep changing and so would our daily lives. However, the tested traditions and practices would not and should not change. Hinduism allows for adjustments, accommodations and adherence based on time, place and circumstances. Follow the law, follow your heart and remember your great heritage, you will prevail! If you disagree with me, no problem, then ask your Pundit or Temple Leader, they should be able to help you more than what is written here. Hinduism in Canada , is it practiced Real or Traditional ? You be the Judge!