Hinduism mentions various customs and rituals. Similarly, every society has its own traditions and practices. The scriptures also specify certain rules regarding aspects of our daily lives.
One of the significant rules among these is how one should behave while bathing. Elders in the family teach us or instill this habit in us from childhood.
They say that one should keep at least one piece of clothing on the body while bathing and not bathe naked. However, most people are unaware of the reasons behind this practice. Today, we will learn the scriptural and scientific reasons for this rule.
Scriptural Reason
In the tenth canto and twenty-second chapter of the Shrimad Bhagavat Purana, a story is mentioned. According to the story, the gopis observed a fast dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, wishing to obtain a husband like Lord Krishna. During the fast, the gopis were bathing naked in the Yamuna River. At that time, Lord Krishna said to them:
"Uyam Vibastra Yadapo Dhritatva, Vyagahita Tat Tadu Devhelanam.
Vriddhanjali Murdhnyapanuttayehasah Krutva Namotha Vasanam Pragyatam."
The meaning of this verse is:
"Young girls, you have bathed naked in the water while observing a fast, which has dishonored the water deity Varuna and the Yamuna River. To atone for this offense, you should fold your hands, bow down, and offer respects to them, and only then retrieve your clothes."
In simple terms, bathing naked disrespects the water deity Varuna and the Yamuna River. To avoid dishonoring or offending the water deity, the practice of not bathing naked became prevalent.
Another Possible Reason
In earlier times, the joint family system was common. Separate bathrooms or bathing rooms were often unavailable. The rooms used for bathing were called "Nahanighar." In many households, these rooms did not have doors, but only a curtain hung for privacy. Even if doors existed, they would not close properly. As a result, anyone could accidentally enter the room, leading to awkward situations.
To avoid such problems, the rule of keeping at least one piece of clothing on the body while bathing was established.