This year, the Hindu New Year (Gudhi Padwa) falls on 19 March. Let us begin the year with simple resolves to live by Dharma in our daily lives.
1. I shall apply kumkum or tilak to my forehead daily
Applying kumkum or tilak to the forehead is a visible expression of our faith and cultural identity. It awakens our inner Shakti, enhancing mental clarity, focus and discipline. Let it remind us each day to live with dignity, discipline and devotion to Dharma.
2. I shall dedicate a few minutes each day to chanting
Devotional practices like prayers and chanting purify the mind and bring positivity into life. Spend at least 30 minutes each day chanting the name of your Kuldevata or Ishtadevata.
3. I shall offer a prayer before every meal
In our tradition, food is considered sacred and a form of the Divine. Before every meal, offer a short prayer to God as an expression of gratitude for the food received.
4. I shall greet others on the phone, saying ‘Namaste’ or ‘Jai Shri Ram’ instead of ‘Hello’
Using traditional greetings helps preserve our cultural identity and reminds us of the Divine in every person. Even in simple conversations, such small practices keep our connection with our roots alive.
5. I shall regularly visit temples and volunteer for seva
Temples are sacred centres of devotion and spiritual energy. Visiting them regularly and supporting their activities, either through donations or volunteering, helps preserve these important pillars of our Dharma.
6. I shall proudly wear traditional attire
Traditional clothing is a symbol of our heritage and identity. Wearing it at least during festivals and special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and wedding ceremonies, if not every day, helps keep our traditions alive.
7. I shall celebrate my birthday in a Dharmic way
Instead of celebrating birthdays at pubs or parties, celebrate it as per Hindu culture. Visit a temple or a gaushala, and perform an act of charity or seva there. This transforms the occasion into an opportunity for gratitude and spiritual growth.
8. I shall serve and protect Gau-mata
In our culture, the cow is revered as ‘Gau-mata’ and holds a sacred place. Serving and protecting Gau-mata by supporting local gaushalas, contributing to their care, and remaining vigilant against cow trafficking is a meaningful way to serve Dharma.
9. I shall oppose the denigration of our Deities and Dharma
Remain vigilant and speak up respectfully whenever our Deities, Saints, or sacred traditions are mocked or insulted in advertisements, films, plays, or on social media. Protecting the honour of our Dharma is a shared responsibility of every Hindu.
10. I shall use social media to spread Dharma
Instead of posting only entertainment or time-pass content, share posts that highlight the greatness, values and traditions of our Dharma, our culture, and our festivals. Also, share posts that raise awareness about the threats facing our Dharma and the need to unite and overcome them.
