For the Indians, knowledge is sacred and divine. Therefore, one should be respected at all times. Nowadays, we separate subjects as sacred and secular. But in ancient India, every subject, academic or spiritual, was considered divine and taught by the guru in the gurukula.
The habit of not stepping on educational tools is a frequent reminder of the important place given to knowledge in Indian culture. From a very early age, this wisdom nourishes in us a deep reverence for books and education. That’s also why we love books, vehicles and instruments once a year, the day of Saraswathi Pooja or Ayudha Pooja, dedicated to the Goddess of Learning. In fact, every day before starting our studies, we pray:
Saraswati namasthubhyam
Varade kaama roopini
Vidyaarambham karishyaami
Sidhirbhavatu me sadaa
Meaning: O Goddess Saraswati, the giver of Boons and fulfiller of wishes, I prostrate to You before starting my studies. May you always fulfill me?
