Devotion

Although Hinduism as it is practiced today is generally a patriarchal system, its ancient roots are matriarchal. Unlike most major religions, Hinduism has a multitude of masculine and feminine deities that are worshipped and receive equal veneration from its devotees. In the Hindu tradition many matriarchal principles and traditions still exist. The Swasthani Festival is one example of a matriarchal tradition that survives. The principal participants are women who have temporarily left their homes for a month of worship and fasting. The men who participate play a subordinate role, assisting the women during their daily ascetic routines. The married women who participate do so because their families at home, including their husbands, have taken on all of the familial responsibilities while they are away. In this series, I want to show how all participants, the pilgrims and throngs of observers, are integral parts or principal players, acting out an ancient ritual or drama.