Geethartha Chinthane-76: Decline of Clan = Decline of Clan's Culture

The decline of a clan equates to the decline of its cultural heritage. Women are the trendsetters of values, but social competition is eroding these values. Today, we’re increasingly focused on material needs. In the past, basic needs like clothing, shelter, and food were sufficient. Now, new models of material desires emerge constantly in the competitive arena. Such desires begin at home.

For instance, if one starts consuming alcohol, funds are needed; salary alone won’t suffice, so one may have to take loans. Caught in this trap, they might resort to lying, and those who support them will be forced to do the same. Thus, one negative value attracts multiple others, causing the initial moral decay to start at home, Arjuna explains.

Just as fashion trends emerge from movies, values begin at home, says Arjuna. But what true criteria determine fashion? Simply an ornament or clothing item worn by a hero or heroine, displayed as attractive, leading everyone to follow it? In the same way, material desires originate from within households.

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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