Tibetan Kata Scarves

• The offering of a kata prayer scarf is one of the most well known and practiced Tibetan Buddhist customs.
• Traditionally given as a symbol of respect and gratitude, a kata signifies an appreciative welcoming or greeting.
• They are considered an auspicious symbol that represent purity and compassion.

A kata is traditionally given with incense during ceremonial occasions such as births, weddings, funerals, and the arrival or departure of guests.  It lends a positive note to the start of any relationship and indicates the good intentions of the person offering it.  You will often see a lama, including the Dalai Lama, offering or receiving a kata.  They may also be offered to religious images such as statues of the Buddha. 

Each time we visit Nepal, we are greeted with the offering of a kata scarf and each time it is incredibly special to us.  We absolutely love and appreciate the idea that a small scarf can represent such a significant gesture.  Its meaning of interconnectedness, positivity, respect, and gratitude is one that we are grateful to receive and encourage.

We want to offer this experience to our DharmaShop community.  By shopping our collection of handmade kata scarves from Nepal, you can participate in this Tibetan tradition as well!