What Should Women Do if They Get Their Periods During a Pilgrimage? Saint Premanand Maharaj Shares a Thoughtful Answer

When it comes to visiting sacred sites or going on pilgrimages, one recurring concern for many women is the question of menstruation. Often, women hesitate or cancel their spiritual journeys if their periods coincide with the dates of travel. But what happens when menstruation unexpectedly begins during the pilgrimage? Can women still offer their devotion? Should they participate in rituals? These are questions many women struggle with.

Famed spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj of Vrindavan recently addressed this delicate issue during a public discourse, offering a balanced, respectful, and spiritually inclusive perspective.

🛕 “Do Not Skip Darshan Just Because of Periods,” Says Premanand Maharaj

During a gathering, a woman asked Maharaj,

“Many women travel long distances for pilgrimage, but if they get their period during the journey, should they still go for darshan?”

To this, Premanand Maharaj responded with compassion:

“Periods are a natural, biological process. If you’ve come this far with devotion, you should not skip darshan. Take a bath, apply a little sacred chandan (sandalwood paste), and offer prayers from a distance. Do not engage in rituals, offer items, or touch idols—but observing from afar is absolutely fine. Who knows if you'll get this chance again in life?”

His words resonated with many, as they acknowledged both religious tradition and female dignity.

🩸 Menstruation Is Not Impure, But Honorable

Going deeper, Maharaj emphasized that menstruation is not something shameful or impure, as often portrayed in cultural taboos. Instead, he described it as sacred and honorable.

“It’s important to understand the deeper symbolism. According to spiritual legends, the sin of Brahma-hatya (killing a Brahmin) committed by Lord Indra was divided into four parts by sages. One of those parts was accepted by women in the form of menstruation. This is not a curse—it’s an act of sacrifice and grace.”

He explained how the remaining parts of the sin were given to nature:

• Rivers carry it as foam and froth,

• Trees carry it as resin,

• The earth bears it as barren land,

• And women, as the monthly menstrual cycle.

This narrative, though symbolic and spiritual in nature, aims to honor women for their role in absorbing part of the cosmic burden, rather than stigmatizing them.

🧘 A Call for Empathy and Inclusion in Faith

Premanand Maharaj’s message encourages greater inclusivity in spiritual spaces, especially for women. In a society where menstruating women are often barred from participating in religious activities, his balanced approach bridges the gap between tradition and modern understanding.

By acknowledging the naturalness of periods while still respecting temple protocols (like avoiding physical contact or offerings), his response allows women to maintain their devotion without guilt or shame.

🕉️ Final Thoughts

Periods should not become a barrier to faith or devotion. Premanand Maharaj’s thoughtful take reminds us that spirituality must evolve to embrace every part of our humanity—especially for women whose devotion remains unwavering, regardless of physical cycles.

His words are a call to rethink orthodox rules with compassion and scriptural understanding, empowering women to remain active in their spiritual journeys.