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Amar Bharati is an Indian sadhu who was just an ordinary man who lived a normal life with his wife and three children. But in 1973 he raised his right hand into the air in honor of the deity Shiva and reportedly never lowered it again.
Why did the man decide not to lower his hand?
In 1970 he changed his entire life and decided to renounce everything: his wife, children, his ordinary lifestyle – and to devote himself fully to the Indian god Shiva. He began wandering the Indian roads, dressed in robes and carrying only a metal trident.
After 3 years he realized that he was still too connected to everyday life, and decided to completely detach himself by raising his right hand.
He simply reiterated the symbolism of Bharati’s hand and demonstrated complete devotion to his deity.
Unusual rituals
It turned out that this was not the first case at all, but it remains the longest.
His arm was completely atrophied and stuck in an upright position due to Amar’s unwillingness to lower it even for a few minutes.
Throughout his life the sadhu performed unusual tasks and rituals, and did so only in the name of his faith. These include: sleeping upright, not eating for long periods and bathing.
Opinions about Amar’s act varied radically
“Another example of the madness of all religions,” commented one reader. “This man not only suffered, but also encouraged others to do the same.”
Others defended his action and applauded his self-sacrifice.
“Many people do not understand exactly what is happening here, and therefore are surprised when they saw Amar’s act.” He is only a devoted and true believer who decided to dedicate his entire life to faith and service to God. Perhaps his act seemed excessive to many people: but it all depends on whether we are truly believers or not. “
What do his fingers look like?
