ISKCON Tirupati Abhishek 31-01-2007 Part 01

Yes, it was nice talking to you as well. I have been to baneras and other places where shaivism is prominant and they also have their dress which identifies them as shivaites and if it helps them progress then why not.

I am aware that the style of dress of a Vaishnave is very old and I think it is a very spiritual appearence. the enthusiasm of a Westerner to adopt such a manner of dress as part of their path is to be commended I would conclude! I have seen Vaishnaves in such dress that really do look beautiful as I have seen Shaivites with jata look equally as attractive...thank you for your responses Prabhu...

Yes, you are correct, one CAN make spiritual progress, however every tradition holds certain standards by which they progress, and this is ours. I mean you can tell a cop by his uniform so you can tell how someone is progressing by their actions, behaviours etc. However I agree that the externel is not important but as we progress internelly our externel also changes.

Culture is a set of values and practices that distinguishes one group from another I would say...one can make spiritual progress regardless of how one dresses as it is or should be, an interior transformation. so truly an american can dress like an Indian if they want to...it is just funny that so many Hare Krishnas and those in other sampradayas see this as a need when really the change should be a mental perspective.

Who says that the body is not important? spirituality is helped with whatever is conducive for their spiritual lives.These are spiritual clothing which helps them and inspires them to continue with their goal. Define culture? I mean its funny, i actually like the trade, i mean according to your logic then, Indians are trying to be white because all i see is indians wearing jeans and tshirts etc. So with that logic whats wrong with this trade off?

but if the body is not important then why do they change their appearence in the first place when that is not even their culture? why not just remain in western garb? like jeans and t-shirts for example...?

They are not "acting" like "indians" they are focusing on their spiritual life which is above any false designations such as indian or american etc. Only an "indian" who is not educated in their own culture would laugh at them.

why do all these devotees shave their heads and act like Indians? A real Indian would probably laugh at them!

mode of passion I'd say...I'd be less inclined to follow one who could not restrain his tounge from food...

That well fed devotee is a very sweet spiritual master whos dedicated his life to God and humanity.