Published Paper


Reconnecting to Vedic Social System: Prospects and Encounters of Vanaprastha Stage

Dr.S.Kannan
India
Page: 738-753
Published on: 2024 March

Abstract

The Varnashrama system has become a buzzword among scholars and religious institutions for revamping Vedic social life in post-modern society. How far it is relevant in post-modern culture is debatable; however, few religious movements are trying to rebuild the practice in post-modern society. One of the movements practicing the system worldwide is the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). The movement is closely identified with this practice as the organization's founder emphasizesthat its followers practice it. In this context, the present study explores the possibility of the practice in the current context. Eight senior Vanaprastha practitioners were identified using the snowball sampling method, and data was collected from them using the case study method.The analysis reveals that, despite not having many facilities to practice Vanaprastha, the followers still practice enthusiastically, managing their finances and guiding the younger generation by engaging in various spiritual activities that enable them to overcome the challenges of the elderly. Ultimately, the study suggested implementing Vanaprastha facilities and bringing spiritual culture into society.

 

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