Bowing down !!!!!  

I'm not aware of the Indian customs, but yes, it does seem like a waste of money. As I aspire to recognise at-one-ness, I begin to get the feeling that I have a need to treat everything in existence with respect. Zen masters talk about their vow to work to enlighten all, right down to the very last blade of grass. Wastage doesn't seem like respect to me.

I recognise the practice of "bowing down" to realise humility and keep the ego in check, but surely if we are to waste things, we are really attempting to put ourselves above them? In Japanese Zen temples both masters and students bow to each other and they say the master can become student and student can become master until both master and student disappear:-)

Well I can’t say about the bowing part coz according to me, bowing and condescending are two different aspects. However, it is a well-known fact, especially among us Indians, that wasting public money is more the example rather than the exception in India. “Chamchagiri” is ingrained in our blood, in our brain and open exhibition of it is the accepted norm of public behaviour these days. I think people like you are becoming endangered species in more ways than one. Firstly, in refusing such exhibition of false respect, you are angering people who are organizing the show. Secondly you are being seen gradually as a snob and an outcast , as if your thoughts for saving public money is more than the chamchas surrounding you. You are adopting a holier-than-thou attitude which is not acceptable in a country like ours.

I'm not sure I understand the custom, but I think money could be spent on something more than disposable things like that. There are hungry people that could be fed with that money. I don't think I would bow down to accept a garland because I don't like money to be wasted.

Well thats our custom. But i feel if garlanding is done & kept only upto Gods it is fine. Why garland humans as well ????????/

I think Sir, flowers are the sources of beauty, fragrance, hope and regardness. It is by Nature and no one has any sort of disliking for flowers. So in our tradition, garlands of flowers carry a good sense of respect and honour for the respeted ones from God to person. Since many flowers are naturally decayable soon, that is why taken to dustbin, that supports natural recycling! Regarding the cost aspect of garlands, higher cost must be avoided always, keeping an eye with tradition. If some rupees is spent for honouring guests as a matter of tradition and culture, I may say this is a sign of social wellness. Thanks.

perhaps that's culture.

Hi,war.I have a different opinion. One gesture may have different meanings in different lands.We dont think bowing down means indignity in such condition although it may has other meaning in different circumstance.Guest who get garlands means receiving bless and best regards from host.They only hold such ceremony to the man who they thought to be deserved such an honur!Flowers are endowed with respect and welcome.I will accept this fashion.