Re-Imagining "Atithi Devo Bhava" (अतिथि देवो भव:) as Transformative Force

 

Atithi Devo Bhava," rooted in ancient Indian traditions and scriptures, particularly the Taittiriya Upanishad, emphasizes treating guests with reverence. In Indian culture, hosting a guest is regarded as an opportunity to serve the divine. This concept is reimagined at Prayogillu, where diverse experts (visual artist, dancer, performer, multi-disciplinary, scientist, carpenter, farmer, educationist, architect, doctors, dietician, athletes and many more) will be invited as guests to share and exchange knowledge with local communities, and local  communities will do the same. Through this re-imagining of Atithi Devo Bhava, the project explores the potential of guests to foster positive social change. As a result, it cultivates hospitality, conviviality, and promotes socio-cultural dialogue between guests and local communities.

 

By imagining guests as agents of transformation, the act of welcoming them takes on a deeper dimension. Guests bring new perspectives, knowledge, skills, and insights that can challenge and broaden existing norms and motivate innovation. The exchange of ideas between guests and the local community encourages mutual learning, breaking down hierarchical divisions. This practice not only empowers local participants but also allows the guests themselves to grow through reciprocal learning. Prayogillu aims to explore the role of the guest as a transformative force (agent of transformation), where their presence catalyzes shifts in thought, creativity, and social practices, fostering an inclusive and dynamic environment that thrives on shared experiences and collective growth.