Pushpamala 6: Festival of Joy

(When the scene starts, all the Yoginis are offering Haldi- Kumkum , turmeric-vermillion application to fore-head, to each other . They are smiling at each other pleasantly and engaging in light conversations. They are also performing a ceremony called 'Oti-Bharan' which means worshipping a lady by filling her lap with auspicious articles, fruits,etc. and touching each others' feet as if the other person is a goddess. Some Yoginis are standing with Mahalaxmi and they are animatedly discussing something.)

Vama:

Mother Mahalaxmi, what is the importance of Haldi-Kumkum for ladies?

Mahalaxmi:

Oh! Dear Vama, Haldi-Kukum represents mutual good-will, because when ladies apply Haldi-Kumkum

to each other, at that time their hearts unify atleast for some moments, and their mutual love increases.

Ulka:

Oh! I see, is that why there is Haldi-Kum-Kum tradition in our society from time to time. ?

Mahalaxmi:

Yes, Ulka. The other important thing is that it is a symbol of 'Soubhagya', sacred married status.

Indrani:

And Yes, Haldi-Kum-Kum is a festival of joy for ladies, isn't it?

( all Yoginis laugh mildly)

Song 1 :The worship with 'Haldi-Kumkum'

My 'sakhis' have arrived

They are my neighbors of love and affection

I worship them like 'Mother Goddesses'

It connects me to TRUTH and ultimate perfection.

We apply 'Haldi-Kumkum'¹ on each others forehead

And share sorrows and joys like a kin

This then is the strength of 'Haldi-Kumkum',

It empowers us spiritually from within.

Notes:

1. Haldi-Kumkum : Turmeric and Vermilion, a pinch of which is applied by Indian ladies as an auspicious mark on the fore-head.

Varuni:

Mother Mahalaxmi, this simple tradition of Haldi-Kum-Kum leads to so much love and harmony among friends and neighbors, isn't it?

Mahalaxmi:

Yes, Va