dharmashala

A dharmashala (or dharamshala), etymologically, means 'a religious school'. However, the word is generally used in a different context. Most (big) Hindu (and Buddhist) temples in India offer lodging and/or dining facilities for interested individuals or small parties. They are either free (running on donations) or for a very nominal rate. You may donate to the temple to cover your charges if there are any.

Such a facility is called a dharamshala. It is characterized by spartanic (sometimes unclean and pest-ridden) furnishings and quiet and peaceful surroundings. There may be a school under the temple administration in the same locality dispensing Hindu teachings.

'Dharamshala' is essentially a Sanskrit/Hindi word. It is similar to the word 'madarsa' used by Muslims; 'madarsa' however, actually being an Islamic religious school where the holy Koran is taught.

etymology: Dharma = 'religion' + shaalaa = 'school'

During most of our trip through northern India, we ate at roadside hotels and stayed in dharmashalas.

by Hindu HridaySamrat September 1, 2006

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dharam

Dharma in action. Righteous behavior. To be in the right place at the right time. To act without creating more Karma
which is best accomplished by serving others and always acting from compassion and not from personal interest.
It implies walking a spiritual path and living with purpose or destiny vs. acting from fate and just going along with whatever circumstance dictates.

It is my dharam to serve those less lucky than me

by Karma Yeshe Chodhar February 4, 2010

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