What is in Attire?
(Sri Swamiji’s speech at Nujiveedu at 6 PM on 4th January 2007)

Why do Sanyasis (Sages) and monks wear ochre robes?? What does saffron indicate?? In previous generation, widows and widowers were wearing similar attire or white clothes without borders. All these people were also tonsuring their heads. They also have different and difficult life styles, compared to contemporary life patterns. Was the system of some utility to them? Or was it a tragedy? Or Junk?

No matter, you have the right to criticise anything under the sky and above. You should study the subject, customs or system. Try to analyse it in unbiased temper. Try to understand it in proper manner before concluding it either way.

All the attire and etiquette was to divert the mind from lust and avert the attention. It was required for people, (who had mortal, body, worldly relations with others) to start getting detachment. Yellow, Saffron, Ochre, Red or less flashy clothes denote the sense of detachment to onlookers. They also remind the person to remain his vows and supposed lifestyle. After marital relationship, progeny and other responsibilities, one should also realise that one should find slowly extricate one self out of bondages.

Now a day, people think of union/ marriage with another person even before the first death anniversary. Never shy from exhibiting ornaments. This is another age. I am not complaining about current year practices. This is another way of material world. But, one should always remember that every tradition had a good merit showing the path towards Knowledge (Aatma Gnanam).

I always prefer girls under my tutelage and supervision to be modest and look simple. I dislike skin show in the name of modernity or freedom. Why should you attract people with your bodily appearance?? If at all, you want limelight/ centre stage; try to get it with your education/ hard work/ charity/ service. Do not try to display your wealth. It will attract others’ wrath for myriad reasons. It is of no use. I appear as very modern at a glance. But, my soul is always rooted in the merits of my tradition.

When devotees wear Datta Vastram, it always keeps you in the fold of Datta/ Swamiji. You are always reminded not to commit any mistakes intentionally and harm to others. This is our Uniform. When Armed Forces wear a uniform, they are reminded always about the duty to nation. Likewise, our Datta Volunteers wear this uniform to keep themselves engaged in the service to humanity. I advise all the devotees to wear Datta Vastram. Proudly display this, as a symbol of Datta Family. You will become chaste one day. When you wear this sacred Vastram, you cannot smoke, consume alcohol or meat. You cannot indulge in any act involving moral turpitude.
Make it a practice to wear this. At least during Puja time and when you visit Temples and Swamiji, Datta Vastram should be a part of your attire. This small piece of cloth will attract my attention towards you.

Jaya Guru Datta

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