The Beautiful Tradition of Touching Elders' Feet in Indian Culture

Right from childhood, Indian children are told to touch their elder's feet, especially before any important event like appearing for exams or going for any important work/meetings. Let's explore the rationale of this tradition and understand its significance.

1. Symbol of Respect - Elders are revered in all cultures, due to their wisdom gained through experience. Touching their feet is a gesture of deep respect and gratitude.
2. Acknowledging hierarchy- Our Indian culture places great importance on hierarchy and age-old wisdom. Touching our elder's feet signifies acknowledging this hierarchy and recognizing the elders' authority and seniority. It is a mark of humility and an acceptance of the wisdom that comes with age.
3. Seeking blessings- The act of touching our elders' feet is deeply rooted in the belief that they possess a divine aura and that their blessings have the power to bring good fortune and success. Individuals sought a prosperous and fulfilling life as an outcome of their elder's blessings.
4. Strengthening family bonds- The act of touching our elders' feet strengthens the bond between generations. It fosters a sense of unity, love and respect within the family. It encourages younger generations to maintain close relationships with their elders.
5. Preserving cultural heritage- In India, touching the feet of elders is a ritual that has been passed down through generations. Indians preserve their tradition and the values and customs that have influenced their culture for generations by continuing this practice. It reminds us of the complex cultural tapestry that constitutes Indian identity.
6. The Science- Did you know that touching our elders' feet has science behind it? Our human body constitutes of millions of nerves. Some of them end at the tip of our toes and the tip of our fingers. When a person's fingertips touch the toes of his or her elders, the finger becomes an energy receiver, absorbing energy from the seniors' body, while the elders' toes become energy givers. Touching the feet of our elders completes the circuit and transmits energy.

So next time it is your birthday / or some festival / or any important event - do not miss the chance of touching the feet of all the revered elders around you!!