Hippie Yogis in Rishikesh, India

The sound of the universe: "OM"

Like the Buddha-to-be (the Bodhisattva in past lives) striving in and around the Himalayas for many rebirths, young spiritual seekers head to the highest mountain range in the world and holy cities like Rishikesh and Haridwar in search of yogic powers (siddhis) and, more importantly, liberation (moksha, vimutti) from samsara Why would a comfortable Westerner travel to India and head up into the Himalayan foothills at the headwaters of the River Ganges?

The "God of Poverty"

In terms of questionable religious practices, nominally Buddhist Japan may now lead the pack. There is a new God of Poverty, which can be struck, kicked, and blamed for financial misfortune -- for a price. The God is willing to shoulder the blame for the current global crisis as well as individual hardships.

• VIDEO: Japan's God of Poverty & Anti-worship Works

This practice echoes the Islamic practice of hurtling stones at the devil (tossing pebbles at a wall called Jamarat during the Hajj, or annual pilgrimage to Mecca).

• VIDEO: Stoning of the Devil (Reuters)

The custom of self-mortification is not limited to the sages and seers of the East. It is still rampant in some parts of Christendom. Most notable is the annual custom of self-flagellation and voluntary crucifixion in the Philippines.

• VIDEO: Nailed to a Cross for Christ

Finally, no culture can rival India for majestic splendor and strange customs. The country hosts the largest human gathering for a single purpose (with hundred of millions attending Kumbh Mela held every dozen years). Its practices are colorful, with periodic lesser Melas every three years, and national holidays like Holi.

• VIDEO: Holi Preparations in India & Holi (BBC)

Related

• Kumbh Mela: 2010
• TIMEAsia: Photo Essay of Kumbh Mela
• The New Gomorrah (India)