Nepal, in honor of Shiva women gurus can also go naked
Kathmandu (AsiaNews) - For the first time in the history of Nepal, women can go naked in the celebration of Mahashivaratri, a festival in honor of the god Shiva. Until now, the nudity was the exclusive prerogative of men. The news has been criticized by the population residing near the temple of Pashupatinath (Kathma du). This has prompted the government to distribute among the "sadu" (sages of both sexes) an "identity card for devotees" to prevent possible cases of prostitution, exhibitionism, or other offensive acts not linked to religion.
Shusil Nahata, the government delegate for the celebrations, said: "We have decided to release these ID's to certify these people as 'Nangababa' (naked sages). To beg in the temple they must show these ID cards." As for the presence of naked women, the official said that is a trend that has already occurred in Kumbhafair in India about a month ago. "It's likely - he adds - that those present at Pashupatinath belong to the same group."
The Mahashivaratri is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. Every year the festival draws thousands of Hindu holy men from all over the country and from India and around 500 thousand faithful. In the weeks prior to the festival, which this year falls on March 10, the authorities of the temple of Pashupatinath reserve the different areas where gurus can beg and live. None of them wear any clothes in order to reach a level of pure asceticism and get in touch with God. Many Hindu devotees leave offerings to these gurus, considering them a reincarnation of Lord Shiva.
The worship includes a day and a night of fasting and vigil. In addition to the offerings of food and incense, the ritual allows the consumption of hashish and marijuana in honor of the God. For 2013, the government has taken serious measures to control the Hindu gurus, caught on several occasions selling drugs and demanding sexual services from young devotees.
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24/10/2019 17:56
28/05/2021 14:26
