Ceremonial India: Rites of the Ancient Part One

<p>India's centuries-old rituals reflect its people's spiritual social and seasonal rhythms. Ceremonial India: Rites of the Ancient Part One is a compelling look at eight ancient customs that impact millions of lives.</p><p>This book explains the tales symbolism and meaning behind each ritual from Chhath Puja on the Ganges where devotees worship to the solar deity to Sanjhi where ephemeral drawings become hallowed expressions of devotion.</p><p>Chitragupta Puja honors the divine record-keeper Gangaur celebrates marital fidelity and feminine grace and Gaye Holud a Bengali pre-wedding rite full of color and community is turmeric-tinted.</p><p>Explore lesser-known but meaningful practices like Louse Aab a tribal rite of passage; Mahr the Islamic marriage gift of respect and responsibility; and Me Dam Me Phi an Ahom ancestor worship ceremony that spans centuries.</p><p>This book richly crafted and wonderfully presented highlights India's living legacy where ancient traditions live in current times and offers insight into a society that celebrates life through ceremony.</p>