Over the next few days my ashram will turn into a Fortress of Bliss, however unlike a fortress in which everything remains contained, the energy generated by all the Navaratri pujas and homas will spill out into the Universe, so that if you could draw a picture of the invisible you would see this great orbit like machine that generates something akin to a silent atomic explosion. But with one fundamental difference!
Unlike an atomic explosion that creates widescale destruction, this explosion sets off layers of joy that unite all creatures, spreading a shield of loving protection around our planet.
Every chant, every mantra, every silent sankalpa releases something beautiful into the Universe. Special herbs with distinct potencies will be offered as oblation to the happy lapping tongues of the fire Gods. And these herbs will purify the air for miles arround, adding positive energy and cheer to those attending the pujas as well as those quite unaware of the grand scale of celebration in the ashram.
Celebration is a part of the Indian genetic code, and since time immemorial we Indians have perfected this art – welding science, art, astronomy, music, dance, astrology and gastronomy into our celebrations. Navaratris have now become an International celebration with people travelling great distances to be a part of the celebrations in Art of Living’s International headquarters in Bangalore, India.
What makes Navaratris so special in my ashram is that people from all over the world, from distinct religions and cultures, come together as one big family to exchange love and absorb peace, bliss and wisdom.
The level of sattva reaches its peak during the last 3 days, the joy that rebounds all over is unmistakable, even to one unaware of spiritual bliss. You can see it in the twinkling eyes and smiling faces of the people around you. There is an air of relaxation armed with alertness, joyful camaraderie holding hands with self awareness. This is celebration with mindfulness. Joy with stability. Stamped with the indelible mark of the sadhak, the sincere seeker.
Navaratri is a time when humans collude with the Gods and Angels, a meeting on the invisible realm with our higher selves, embracing the good, bad and ugly, celebrating the diversity of the Universe, embracing all things as part of the great universal Consciousness.
Come, be a part of this grand meeting of spirits!
A Sadhak's Diary 