In the end when we come out from the temple and ready to leave, the real bargaining begins. Whatever we give him, he wants at least ten times more. This final bargaining leaves a very sour taste. At every step it seems that only objective of the priest is to get as much money from us as possible. If we keep on paying the amount he prescribes at each step, he is politest and kindest person in the world. However, if we wish to pay less, his demeanour changes, he becomes grumpy, inattentive or outright rude. In the temple, I am trying to have a glimpse of my inner spirituality but the signboard cautioning me to be aware of pickpockets just does not let me, I become more aware of my wallet than the presence of God in the temple.
And all this is done in the name of getting you blessed by the Deity of the temple. Do these people not feel any fear from the Deity when they cheat the worshipers? Do these priests themselves not believe in the divine power and divine justice? Are they completely devoid of any moral qualms?
Similar to the priests the beggars outside the temple also say that if we give them money the Deity of the temple would shower blessings on us. In comparison to the priests, the beggars appear more civilized and honest. Their claim is probably more genuine. They are happy with whatever money we give them. They certainly seem more deserving candidate for our charity.
I am sure the Deity will be much more pleased if I helped the beggars than the unholy priests and the deceitful shopkeepers.
Ref: Court bans pandas from Kalighat temple
