The Taittiriya Upanishad says "Matru devo bhava, Pitru devo
bhava, Acharya devo bhava, Atithi Devo Bhava". Means One should worship
Mother, Father, Teacher and Guests as God. This is Sanskrit verse taken
from ancient Indian scriptures which were codifying the social customs and
cultures evolved by learned and wise people which later on became "code of
conduct" for Indian society. In Atithi Devo Bhava emphasis was given in
codifying a procedure of Host and Guest relationship.
These are five steps actually five formalities that shall be
observed while receiving Atithi (Guest).
1.Dhoop or fragrance-While receiving guest we must see that rooms have pleasant
fragrance, because this is the first thing that attract or distract your guest.
A pleasant fragrance will put your guest in good humor.
2.Deep or lamp, In ancient time when there was no electricity a lamp was put
between host and guest so that expression and body language remain
clearly visible and there is no gap between host and guest.
3.Naivaidya or eatables-Fruits and sweets made of milk were offered to guest.
4.Akshat or rice, It is symbol of being undivided. A tilak made by paste of
vermilion is put on forehead and rice grains are sticked on it. This is highest
form of welcome in Hindu Indian families.
5.Pushp means flower offering a flower has always remained a gesture of goodwill
since dawn of civilization. When the guest depart the flower is like sweet
memories that haunt him for several days.
This is a healthy tradition of India is still in vogue in India.
It attracts millions of tourist every year. Taking advantage of this Tourism
Department of India has started campaign of Atithi Devo Bhava under the
theme The Incredible India.
