In the absence of any previous relationship, and depending upon their respective ages, the relationship between the ácárya/á and the initiate will be that of an elder brother/sister and a younger brother/sister. In case the initiate is younger in age, he/she may greet the ácárya/á by touching the ácárya/á’s feet. Even if the ácárya/á is younger in age, initiates may touch the ácárya/á’s feet in greeting if they wish. The initiate must not do sáśt́áuṋga prańáma⁽¹⁾ to the ácárya/á. These rules apply among fellow disciples also. The ácárya/á should always be addressed in respectful language.

Footnotes

(1) See next chapter, “Methods of Salutation”. –Trans.