Atithi or Guest Reception (study)
by Sarika. P. | 2022 | 41,363 words
This page relates ‘When should Atithi appear?’ 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 2 - When should Atithi appear?
Reception of Atithi is usually performed at functions like marriage, śrāddha, Vaiśvadeva sacrifice etc. Doing Pañcamahāyajñas are the daily duties of a householder. So a householder offers hospitality to his atithi’s every day.
Vājasaneyīsaṃhita, mentions about atithi’s who come every month is considered as a part of good hospitality; and they stay for three nights.[1]