The annual Bhakti Yog Sadhana Shivir at the JKYog Bhakti Ashram in Banara, Cuttack, Odisha, held from 25th to 31st Dec 2024, was a powerful convergence of devotion and divine energy. For seven transformative days, the ashram became a sacred sanctuary where countless devotees gathered to immerse themselves in the teachings of Swamiji, deepen their spiritual practices, and forge a closer bond with the Supreme Divine. Through profound discourses, devotional activities, and heartfelt sevas, the event radiated with the grace and wisdom of Bhakti Yog, leaving an indelible mark on every participant's spiritual journey.
Day 1- A Journey into Narad Bhakti Darshan
The program began with a profound discourse by Swamiji on the Narad Bhakti Darshan, a scripture that serves as a beacon for devotees seeking the path of devotion. With clarity and insight, Swamiji explained each sutra of this sacred text, emphasising its importance in establishing a personal relationship with the Divine. The day's sessions set the tone for a transformative journey, with devotees immersing themselves in the practice of Bhakti, chanting sacred names, and seeking divine blessings.
Cultural Programs and Bhakti through Music
The first day also featured cultural programs that radiated devotion. Soulful kirtans, devotional songs, and instrumental performances filled the air, creating an atmosphere of pure Bhakti. The highlight was the Aarti, a sacred offering of light to the Divine, where participants joined together in worship, chanting divine names and meditating on the form of Radha Krishna.
Day 2: Deepening the Connection
On Day 2, Swamiji's discourses continued to enrich the devotees' understanding of Bhakti, mainly through the teachings of Narad Bhakti Darshan. The day was filled with various cultural performances that celebrated the diversity of devotion, with participants singing bhajans in multiple languages, creating a sense of unity and harmony.
The highlight of Day 2 was the Panchamrit Abhishek of Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, where devotees participated in offering the sacred Panchamrit to their beloved Gurudev, a symbol of their love and devotion.
Day 3: Divine Prasadam and Maha Bhog
The third day was marked by the Maha Bhog Seva, where devotees lovingly prepared prasadam and offered it to Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, deepening their connection with the Divine. The joy of this seva was palpable as devotees gathered together to express their gratitude and devotion through this offering. The day ended with a beautiful Hari Naam Sankirtan, bringing everyone together in a joyous celebration.
Day 4: Radha Krishna Abhyangam
Day 4 brought a tender moment of devotion with the Radha Krishna Abhyangam, where Swamiji and the devotees performed a sacred oil massage for the baby forms of Radha Krishna, followed by a beautiful shringar. This seva was filled with love, as devotees connected with the Divine in the most intimate way, embracing the deities as their own children.
Day 5: Cultural Celebrations and Parikrama
On Day 5, the JKYog Bhakti Ashram resonated with energy as devotees participated in a grand Parikrama around the Jagadguru Kripalu University (JKU) campus. The day also featured heartwarming cultural events where devotees performed songs and dances, expressing their devotion through the arts. The cultural performances brought together people of all ages, showcasing how Bhakti transcends barriers and unites hearts in love for the Divine.
Day 6: Jhulan Seva
The special seva of Jhulan of Shree Kripaluji Maharaj on Day 6 was a deeply emotional moment. Devotees lovingly swung their beloved Gurudev, Shree Maharajji, in a beautifully decorated swing, offering their devotion through this beautiful seva, symbolising the divine love between the Guru and his disciples.
Day 7: Grand Conclusion and Blessings
The final day of the Sadhana Shivir saw an overwhelming outpouring of love and devotion. The entire ashram reverberated with the chanting of divine names as devotees came together in one final Hari Naam Sankirtan, celebrating the glory of Radha Krishna. The culmination of the seven days was a spiritual high, as Swamiji's teachings and Bhakti's experiences through seva and devotion left an indelible mark on everyone present.
A Transformative Journey of Bhakti
The 7-day Bhakti Yog Sadhana Shivir at the JKYog Bhakti Ashram in Banara, Cuttack, Odisha, was a profound journey of devotion and spiritual awakening. Devotees left the ashram with hearts filled with love and minds enlightened with wisdom, ready to continue their spiritual journey with renewed vigour.
The Sadhana Shivir is held every year, from 25th Dec to 31st, and continues to be a cherished opportunity for devotees to deepen their understanding of Bhakti, connect with the Divine, and experience the grace of Swamiji.
Stay tuned for the next event, and join us for a life-changing experience of devotion, wisdom, and celebration at JKYog Bhakti Ashram in Cuttack.
Upcoming Sadhana Shivir: JKYog Holi Sadhana Shivir will be held from 26th Feb to 2nd Mar 2025 at the Bhakti Ashram, Banara, Cuttack.
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