Guru Paduka (Footwear) Kadau for Worship in Brass

The worship of padukas comes from 3 different angles. First and foremost is Guru Padukas. Secondly, it is the rajas (dirt) from great devotees (Bhaagavatas) and last but not the least, the Lord’s footwear.

Guru Padukas- A Guru is the one who leads us towards the better spiritual life and in the end, helps us attain the liberation. Who is this Guru? To lead us, He must have already led that life. Thus, one who has lived that kind of life, has been following all rules all along. So, his footwear ‘bears’ the physical weight of the Guru throughout and they followed the ‘path’ He followed without questioning or doubting. Thus, as a disciple, we must also follow the path prescribed like his footwear and we shall reach the destination. To remind us that we MUST behave like his footwear and follow his path, it is a tradition to take Guru’s footwear and worship them. Additionally, it is considered that one’s footwear is an indication of one’s presence also. Therefore, having Guru’s presence in our house is indicated with his footwear.

Pada rajas- The great devotees of the Lord always live the life of devotion and all that they yearn for is the blessing of Lord. No material desires haunt them. Such people are very holy. The dirt from their feet is also very valuable. The results of putting such dirt on one’s head are inexplicable. Even Sri Krishna did that with Sudhama/Kuchela. Thus, footwear of great devotees are kept in the place of worship.

Lord’s Padukas- The ultimate salvation for a devotee is a permanent place at the feet of the Lord. Therefore, in temples, the Sathari/Sathagopam (silver object in the form of gopuram) with Lord’s footwear at the top is kept on the head of devotees while disbursing teertham/prasadam.

Dimensions of Paduka: 5 inches (L) x 5 inches (W)
Weight: 870 gms
Quantity: 1 pc