Good Fortune
Man feeding a cow a banana on the streets of Varanasi, India
Cows hold sacred status in India, revered as symbols of motherhood, fertility, and divine grace in Hinduism. They are considered manifestations of the goddess Kamadhenu, embodying purity and abundance. This reverence extends to their presence in city streets, where they freely roam as a ubiquitous part of urban life. Despite rapid urbanization, cows are often seen wandering through bustling streets, temples, and markets, coexisting peacefully with city dwellers.
The practice of feeding cows on city streets is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions. Many Hindus consider it a virtuous act, believed to bring blessings and good fortune. Devotees and locals offer food such as grains, fruits, and vegetables to cows as a form of charity and reverence, symbolizing respect for all living beings. This act of kindness towards cows aligns with the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) in Hinduism, emphasizing compassion and harmony with all creatures.
While the sight of cows freely roaming urban streets may seem chaotic to outsiders, it reflects the deeply ingrained cultural values and spiritual beliefs that permeate Indian society, where the sacredness of life extends to even the humblest of creatures.
Good Fortune
Man feeding a cow a banana on the streets of Varanasi, India
Cows hold sacred status in India, revered as symbols of motherhood, fertility, and divine grace in Hinduism. They are considered manifestations of the goddess Kamadhenu, embodying purity and abundance. This reverence extends to their presence in city streets, where they freely roam as a ubiquitous part of urban life. Despite rapid urbanization, cows are often seen wandering through bustling streets, temples, and markets, coexisting peacefully with city dwellers.
The practice of feeding cows on city streets is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions. Many Hindus consider it a virtuous act, believed to bring blessings and good fortune. Devotees and locals offer food such as grains, fruits, and vegetables to cows as a form of charity and reverence, symbolizing respect for all living beings. This act of kindness towards cows aligns with the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) in Hinduism, emphasizing compassion and harmony with all creatures.
While the sight of cows freely roaming urban streets may seem chaotic to outsiders, it reflects the deeply ingrained cultural values and spiritual beliefs that permeate Indian society, where the sacredness of life extends to even the humblest of creatures.