[nukkad] Interesting entry from EB

[Harshal Chhaya <hchhaya@epsilon.pair.com>]

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Here's an interesting bit from Encyclopaedia Brittanica
(http://www.britannica.com):

The adaptability of Hinduism to changing conditions is illustrated by the
appearance in the Hindu pantheon of a new divinity, of special utility in an
acquisitive society. This is the goddess Santosi Mata, first worshiped
widely by women in many cities of Uttar Pradesh and now worshiped throughout
India, largely as the result of a popular mythological film about her birth
and the origin of her worship. The new goddess was unheard-of a few years
ago and has no basis in any Puranic myth. Propitiated by comparatively
simple and inexpensive rites performed in the home without the intervention
of a priest, Santosi, it is believed, grants practical and obvious
blessings, such as a promotion for a needy, overworked husband, a new radio,
or even a refrigerator. News of Santosi's blessings is passed from housewife
to housewife, and even moderately well-educated women have become her
devotees.



Regards,
- 'shal
harshal@mumbai-central.com

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      http://www.mumbai-central.com  <-- Where Mumbaikars meet


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