The Vaidika and the Non-Vaidika Traditions.

   The terms 'Veda' and the 'Vedic' are used in a number of ways. In one sense, it is shastra, traditionally followed. The Vaidika tradition was formerly restricted to only Vedic Brahmins, in the sense who followed either the Rk Vedic or the Yajurvedic traditions. In fact, yajnya, yaga, havan, homa are all yajurvedic. Just reciting the Vedic mantra like the Purusha sukta, Shree sukta, vayu stuti, etc. are Rk Vedic. Both are practiced everywhere in India even today. Even Atahrva Veda has many mantras that are used in everyday life. We can hear the Saman recited in temples and Mathas daily.

   The question of  'avaidika' begins with many tantrika traditions followed in Kerala, West Bengal, Assam, etc. by people who carry out these as their tradition. These are termed 'vamachara consisting of five M's- madhya (Liquor), mamsa (Non-veg.), maithuna (sexual indulgences), maata-maddu and mantra (use of hypnotism and devices like drugs to destroy others' peaceful life to get benefit from it)! This tradition is not appreciated in the Vedic tradition because of  irrational and unscientific methods involved. There are people who offer animals to deities like Kali, Chandi, as sacrifice and eat; as for example the Bison in large numbers. The practices involved sexual acts, alcoholic drinks, etc. These are not admissible in the Vaidic tradition where the offerings are cooked rice and sweets.

    Shankaracharya visited many places where the Non-Vaidic traditions were practiced and tried to stop animal sacrifice. He was almost successful in preventing animal sacrifice in many places, including Nepal. The cause for practice of avaidic tradition is just lack of education, and knowledge of the Vedic tradition. It is the forest tribes, hill tribes and other backward people of remote areas who mainly practiced. Hence, things are changing fast with better roads, communication and education. But the paradox is that the Vaidic tradition is also disappearing fast with the neglect of Samskruta and temple traditions, onslaught of modernism and Western culture and the youth traveling far and wide frequently, these days! Materialism is overtaking the Spiritual values?