Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, May 18: Sri Vishwaprasannateertha Swamiji, head of Pejawar Math here, has asserted that the situation created by the spread of coronavirus infection has proved once again that the food habits, customs and ancient way of life practiced by us are always relevant and never out of date. The video in which the Swamiji is seen sharing this opinion has become viral in social media.

He also stated that the current situation has taught to the whole world the need to follow the 'Madi-Mailige' practices in which unclean/impure things should not be handled unless one is prepared to thoroughly clean himself again, food needs to be cooked in a specific manner by maintaining hygiene, and consumption of certain kinds of food is prohibited.

The Swamiji is seen advocating the need to follow the customs taught by earlier generations, which he says, help one to protect from the external germs, bacteria and viruses. He lamented the fact that the people of late have been swayed by western culture.

"In the past, we used to celebrate birthdays by lighting a lamp, paying respects to our elders and mentors, and by performing puja and sharing Prasadam with everyone. Later we have adopted ourselves to the practice of cutting the cake and blowing the candle light. This is wrong. The traditions and observations taught by our ancestors are always relevant and they play a stellar role in giving a meaning to our lives. Coronavirus infection has shown to the world the importance of these things," the Swamiji has opined.