Namaste!

One of the questions people often ask when they are exploring/encountering SHARANYA for the first time is "Why can't I wear black to puja?". For some it can seem almost counterintuitive, as Kali is black Herself. Others assume that it's because we are buying into "overplayed stereotypes" (that quote came up on a message board a few years ago).  My response then was similar to what I wrote recently, albeit slightly friendlier,  when it was poised on our global email list, [url=http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Daughters_Of_Kali/] Daughters of Kali [/url].

In our tradition and lineage, black is a color only worn in ceremony by the Initiated. The color that is appropriate to worship Maa as Bhadra Kali or Dakshina Kali is red and her priest/ess in India would wear that color for Her puja. Dakshina Kali is the benevolent  aspect of Maa that is generally approached by devotees.  However, (the Initiated) Kaula, working within the Vamamarga or left-hand path of Tantra, worship Her as Smashan Kali, or Kali of the cremation grounds.   The initiates are equipped with practices and knowledge that help facilitate experience with that aspect of Maa's energy. However, initiates do not generally wear black in community pujas as it invites in an energy that requires clear intention to contain. SHARANYA certainly doesn't turn away people who come wearing black, but there is a responsibility that comes with calling Smashan Kali in, as that energy can be very overwhelming if one is not prepared to embody it.
  
Ultimately, every one has to make their own decision about what is appropriate to wear/call in within their own practices. It is not meant in any way to say "I know Maa better then you" etc. Every tradition and lineage has specific practices that may seem  unnecessary to those not directly involved. That being said, non-Sikhs for example, still have to cover their head when visiting a sacred site. It might not make sense to me, but I still observe that practice out of respect. 

May all that we do be in service to Her. Jai Maa!
