PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The Uttarakhand Sanskrit University vice chancellor Dinesh Chandra Shastri met governor lieutenant general (retd) Gurmeet Singh and informed him about the work being done by the university under the ‘one university-one research project’. He also presented a research book to the governor. The VC informed that the university has done research on the topic “Restoration of culture and Indian knowledge system: in the context of Uttarakhand State”.
Shastri said that through the research, the difference between our pilgrimage and tourism has been clarified, and a code of conduct described in the scriptures has been prepared to maintain the dignity of the pilgrimage centres. He said that due to ignorance of this difference, the purity of the holy pilgrimage sites is being affected, causing environmental, social and natural problems. Using technology, a QR code has also been given in this book, through which information about the code of conduct can be obtained on YouTube.
Shastri said that code of conduct is very important for pilgrims to maintain the dignity of pilgrimage places. He said that according to the scriptures, faith and restraint have special importance during pilgrimage.
He said that the pilgrim should meditate on the deity while keeping control over the mind and senses and should keep the company of sages and teachers. The on foot journey to the pilgrimage has been called the ultimate penance, Swa-adhyaya ( self study) , tapasya, evening worship and havan have been described as an integral part of the journey. Keeping restraint in food and living habits, being contented and self-reliant, speaking the truth and having a feeling of friendship, non-violence and respect towards all creatures have also been described as necessary during the journey.
He said that the research also clarifies what things should be avoided during pilgrimage. According to the scriptures, consumption of meat, alcohol and intoxicants is completely prohibited during pilgrimage. Taking donations at pilgrimages, keeping the idea of untouchability in pilgrimages, wearing clothes contrary to dignity, washing clothes in the water of the pilgrimage and crossing over to the other side by swimming are considered inappropriate. Appreciating the research work done by the university, the Governor said that this effort will not only help in the promotion of our ancient knowledge system and culture, but is also useful in maintaining the dignity of pilgrimage sites and strengthening environmental balance. He said that information about the pilgrimage code of conduct should reach as many people as possible.
