"Everyday pooja," is what the older monks tell me as we walk and talk about our day. It is true, the majority of their day is dictated by the act of pooja. The pooja ceremony is an act in which they show reverence to the divine through chanting, offerings, invocations and rituals. The ornate alter is filled with incense, religious iconography, a variety of food and beverages. My friend, Tashi, explained to me that the food and drinks are burned as an offering to god.
The final pooja is a community event, during which people from the town gather around the entrance to the temple and follow along in prayer. As the older women direct us to our seats, we are offered tea and sweet rice. The generosity is a welcoming gesture, allowing us to feel not as outsiders but rather participates in the event..
Spirituality permeates Indian culture. Everywhere you go, weather you are driving through the countryside or in a major city, religion has a presence. As you walk through the streets of Bir, you stumble across shrines dedicated to the Hindu gods. In regards to Tibetan Buddhism, it is a common site to see individuals sitting on steps in town with their mala beads.
I have always felt a connection to a divine presence, wanting to believing in something larger than myself. I realize that the institution of religion can be a controversial subject but I believe that there is a lot can be learned from Indian culture. Despite the wide variety of religions that can be found in India, they are able to coexist. Hindus live in the same town as Buddhist, and Seikes live right down the street. Each day they arise, motivated by a different religious creeds but united by their vibrant spiritual faith.