Mamaearth's Ghazal Alagh explains tradition of touching elders' feet to son: 'Asking the right questions'

Ghazal Alagh elaborated on the tradition, highlighting the prioritisation of respect in Indian culture.

Ghazal Alagh, co-founder of Mamaearth, recently shared a personal anecdote on X about her 9-year-old son Agastya's curiosity regarding the Indian tradition of touching elders' feet. This common cultural practice, which is a symbol of respect and seeking blessings, prompted a thoughtful explanation from Alagh.

In the post on X (formerly Twitter), Alagh recounted the exchange with her son. "My 9-year-old son Agastya asked why we touch elders' feet for blessings," she wrote. "It's a Hindu ritual called Upasangrahana, symbolising respect and letting go of ego to receive blessings, knowledge, and love."

Alagh elaborated on the tradition, highlighting the prioritisation of respect in Indian culture. "Our scriptures prioritise respect in this order: Spiritual knowledge, moral strength, age, family name, and wealth. Even kings bow to spiritual gurus, and traders to aged workers," she explained. She referenced the Ramayana, noting, "In the Ramayana, Lord Rama touched Sage Vishwamitra's feet to show respect, indicating that even the divine figures bow down in reverence."

Expressing her joy at her son's curiosity, Alagh concluded her post by saying, "I am happy to see my son asking the right questions. I am happy there is a tint of our culture in our everyday lives." The post included a picture of Alagh with her son.

My 9-year-old son Agastya asked a question today and the mother inside me was so happy!

Him: Why we touch elders' feet for blessings?
Me: It's a Hindu ritual called Upasangrahana, symbolizing respect and letting go of ego to receive blessings, knowledge, and love.

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Our… pic.twitter.com/E3XQGWxY7t

— Ghazal Alagh (@GhazalAlagh) July 31, 2024

The post quickly gained traction, accumulating over 4,000 views and nearly 100 likes, and sparking a range of reactions from followers.

Amit Misra, CEO of startup Dazeinfo, commented, "I love that Agastya is already so curious about our cultural traditions! It's wonderful to see a young mind eager to learn & understand the deeper meanings behind our rituals. Touching elders' feet is such a beautiful way to show respect and humility, and it's great that you could explain the significance to him in a way he can relate to."

Another user appreciated the cultural lesson, stating, "Thanks. I will also share similar knowledge with my daughter in the future."