December 31 2005

Photos

On 22 Dec 2005, Swamiji flagged off the Ananda Brahmotsav - a 10 day festival which is to culminate on 1 Jan 2006 - Swamiji's 29th Jayanti. In this festival, the presiding deities of the ashram - Lord Ananda Eashwar and Goddess Ananda Eashwari are taken out in procession to all the neighboring villages carrying forth the Existential Energy with them, amidst much celebration.

Swamiji explained that the festival with the deities is not a mere ritual; it is to revive customary rituals with all their significance that has been lost over the years. He stated that these festivals, besides celebrating Existence, help build tremendous group energy and spirit and maintain harmony amongst people.

Following pics were taken on December 31st where you can see Swamiji himself supervising and taking part in the procession from Bidadi village to the aadheenam.