Friday, February 2, 2018

Directing Attention

Bell by the Door  watercolor and ink by Meera Rao

Ringing of the bells during Puja (worship) is an important ritual for Hindus whether at home or at temple.  We ring the bell at the temple when we enter and then as we leave.  A small  hand held bell is rung when 'aarati' (or light) is shown to the murthy (idol of deity).  The light flames  and sound vibrations wake up the senses, clear the mind of distractions and help direct the attention to pray and meditate. 

I love this particular ornate bell that graces the entrance of my brother's home.  During my last visit in November, one afternoon I sat by the steps near the door and sketched it.   

8 comments:

Carol Blackburn said...

How lovely, Meera. Thanks for sharing that information too. It is so good to learn about the traditions of others. I wish you a blessed day!

AK said...

Awesome details. Fabulous work.

Sue Clinker said...

Lovely drawing Meera. Its little details like this that fascinate me in India. In Jodhpur we saw lots of doorways/entrances had hanging bunches of chillis and lemons as good luck symbols (to ward off evil spirits I believe).
Sue

Meera Rao said...

Hi Carol, thank you :) sketching, painting, and writing about these things also makes it more real for me too. I don't experience those things on a daily basis now that I live in US - and I realize how many things i just take it for granted !

Meera Rao said...

Ak, thank you very much!

Meera Rao said...

Sue, thank you! the red Chili/green chili and lemon to ward off evil eye can be seen almost everywhere in India. I have sketched it a couple of times before -here is one link if you are interested :https://artbymeera.blogspot.com/2013/10/evil-eye-hungry-mouth.html

JANE MINTER said...

beautiful sketch Meera

Meera Rao said...

Thank you, Jane :)

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...