Kalyan Manda
Divine Footwear!
The padukas in this photo are the miniature ones... about 2 inches in size.
Padukas are often associated with Indian sadhu—mendicants, holy men and gurus. The two narrow, curved stilts reflect the principle of non-violence practised by Hindus and Jains by minimizing the risk of accidentally trampling insects and vegetation. Made of precious, luxurious materials, paduka become ornaments in a bride's trousseau, serve as ritual objects of veneration for devotees or become votive offerings from the faithful.
Divine Footwear!
The padukas in this photo are the miniature ones... about 2 inches in size.
Padukas are often associated with Indian sadhu—mendicants, holy men and gurus. The two narrow, curved stilts reflect the principle of non-violence practised by Hindus and Jains by minimizing the risk of accidentally trampling insects and vegetation. Made of precious, luxurious materials, paduka become ornaments in a bride's trousseau, serve as ritual objects of veneration for devotees or become votive offerings from the faithful.