Atithi or Guest Reception (study)
by Sarika. P. | 2022 | 41,363 words
This page relates ‘References to Hospitality in the Kiratarjuniya’ of the study on Atithi-Saparya—The ancient Indian practice of hospitality or “guest reception” which, in the Indian context, is an exalted practice tracable to the Vedic period. The spirit of Vedic guest-reception (atithi-saparya) is reflected in modern tourism in India, although it has deviated from the original concept. Technically, the Sanskrit term Atithi can be defined as one who arrives from a far place with hunger and thirst during the time of the Vaishvadeva rite—a ceremony that includes offering cooked food to all Gods.
Part 3 - References to Hospitality in the Kirātārjunīya
In Kirātārjunīya, Yudhiṣṭhira welcomes Vyāsa. Yudhiṣṭhira welcomes him by providing arghya, seat etc. Yudhiṣṭhira expresses sweet words enquiring about the purpose of his visit. This is also part of good hospitality.