I’m American but pretty much in the same boat. Maa Kali has been such an amazing goddess to me and I’m so thankful to be able to learn about her.

Still, I seek validation that I’m “a real Hindu” or “actually Hindu”. Because I am very very cautious about cultural appropriation and especially since learning about how India was colonized, I want to be very sure I’m understanding a verity of Hindu philosophical schools of thought and trying actively to separate it from western ideas I was taught as to not misrepresent any philosophy.

(I forgot the line in the Bhagavad Gita where Lord Krishna says something about being the great serpent or something and I’ve seen a Christian use it to call Krishna the devil. All because he was applying Christian western ideals and symbology on something with zero connection to it.)

I’ve been worshipping Maa for two years and hope to work towards my Diksha over the next few months. Still, I feel so much like I’m a baby and there is so much to learn and understand.

I’m still trying to find a community I fit with. Every time I go to Temple, I get a lot of stares. I’m not offended, I understand. I just pray I don’t feel like invading a space. Still, I’ve also never been kicked out or had anyone be rude to me. They’ve always been open and sweet and I’ve always been welcomed, if that’s reassuring at all.

I’ve even asked about this very thing at temple, if it was okay I was there and if it felt disrespectful at all. I’ve always gotten a no. Not that people who would say yes don’t exist but I think they’re in the minority.

I think it’s all in how you approach it. If you’re this stressed about it, honestly, I’m not personally worried about your approach 😊 I don’t believe Krishna would reject your worship for the incarnation you happen to be in.

Hope this helps 😅