Mirror is an important part of many rituals in Hinduism.
Apart from religious significance, mirror also has important philosophical
significance in Hindu religion. Mirror is considered highly auspicious and is
part of good items that can be viewed before a new beginning.
In Hindu marriages of some communities, when receiving the
groom, there is a tradition to carry a mirror on the platter along with other
beauty related materials.
While the bride is dressing up, she holds a mirror in her
left hand. This is a must for many Hindu communities.
The philosophical aspect of mirror in Hindu teachings is
found in the Upanishads. The reflection in the mirror is seen as God.
‘The person…that is seen in the mirror (eye), that is
self…This is the Brahman – the Supreme Truth – Chandogya Upanishad.
The person that is in the mirror, on him I meditate. –
Kaushitaki Upanishad
Cleaning the mirror (heart) which is covered with dust is a
constant theme in many teachings in Hinduism.
Mirror is an important item during Vishukani darshan, the
seeing of auspicious things during Vishu festival by Malaylis in Kerala.
In some temples, the murti or idol worshipped in the temple
is shown through a mirror. This is done when the murti is not properly visible
or there is huge crowd thronging the shrine.
There are also temples which have huge mirror placed in such
away as to make the devotee realize that the Supreme Truth that the person is
searching outside is within the person.