From 12th to 17th January 2025, the Yogadham – Akhada of The Satsang Foundation in Prayagraj became a vibrant hub of spirituality, in the presence of Sri M and a series of profound teachings, rituals, and cultural events.
Sri M was welcomed with a Poorna-Kumbham ceremony, signaling the beginning of a 47- day spiritual journey that would involve Shibirs (intensive spiritual retreats), daily yoga sessions, Annadaan seva, and cultural activities.
The serene chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa and the Rudram ushered in the first day of the Maha Kumbh at Yogadham.
Sri M offered the ceremonial aarti at the shrine of Sri Guru Babaji and Maheshwarnath Babaji and lit the Akhand Jyot marking the beginning of this 47-day spiritual journey.
A Bhoomi Puja and Dhwaja Puja was conducted during the Dhwaja Sthambha Sthapanam, a ceremonial installation of the wooden staff that bears the Yogadham flag, signifying the establishment of divine energy and sanctifying the space.
In the evening, Sri M lit the sacred Dhuni, the sacred fire of the Nath Sampradaya as the Purusha, Medha, Shri, Durga, and Narayana Suktas were chanted. This marked a powerful moment of connection to the Nath tradition and its practices. Sankranti Shibir was a time of profound spiritual practice for sadhakas (spiritual seekers), with Sri M sharing his wisdom and guiding participants in self-reflection, spiritual growth, and disciplined practice.
On the auspicious day of Makar Sankranti, participants engaged in chanting the Aditya Hridayam Stotram, a prayer to the Sun God, recognizing the significance of this day as the beginning of the sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana), a period believed to enhance spiritual clarity. Sri M explained the importance of this transition in terms of energy and growth, urging participants to use this time for deeper meditation.
Throughout these five days, the central themes of devotion, disciplined practice, service, and spiritual growth pervaded every aspect of the gathering. Sri M’s teachings provided participants with a profound understanding of the purpose of yoga, meditation, and selfless service. By focusing on inner purification, the participants were encouraged to deepen their connection with the divine and embrace a holistic approach to spiritual practice that includes both personal growth and community service.
Through daily practices, sacred rituals, and teachings, the retreat became a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual growth, and the collective energy of the sadhakas, volunteers, and visiting sadhus created a vibrant atmosphere of devotion and reflection.
As the days unfolded, Sri M’s teachings on Kriya Yoga, mantra chanting, the significance of sacred sounds, and the nature of divine consciousness, provided the seekers with practical tools for their spiritual journey, leading them to a deeper understanding of themselves.
The sense of unity, reverence, and peace fostered during these days set the stage for continued spiritual growth at Yogadham, creating a lasting impact on all those who attended.
Yoga retreats by Bharat Yogavidya Kendra are in full swing at the Yogadham, Prayagraj.
