Hindu holy men, or sadhus, renounce the material world in their search for enlightenment. Ascetic practices, such as yoga, are one path to penetrate maya, the world of illusion, in order to perceive the reality within. For the faithful, darshan, or viewing, of the holy man confers a spiritual investment upon the viewer. Aesthetic practices, such as posing for tourist cameras in order to receive bucksheesh, or payment, confers a financial investment on the sadhu business.
Friday, 14 September 2007
Ascetic Aesthetics
Hindu holy men, or sadhus, renounce the material world in their search for enlightenment. Ascetic practices, such as yoga, are one path to penetrate maya, the world of illusion, in order to perceive the reality within. For the faithful, darshan, or viewing, of the holy man confers a spiritual investment upon the viewer. Aesthetic practices, such as posing for tourist cameras in order to receive bucksheesh, or payment, confers a financial investment on the sadhu business.
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