For centuries, cold-pressed oils have been an integral part of traditional Indian living, valued not only for their rich flavour but also for their nutritional integrity and healing properties. Extracted slowly using wooden presses, or ghanis, this method preserves the natural essence (prana) of seeds, unlike modern high-heat, industrial processes.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, oils are not merely cooking mediums but carriers of nourishment and vitality. Cold-pressed oils retain their subtle energies, supporting digestion (agni), lubricating tissues, and aiding in the balance of the doshas when used appropriately. Rich in natural nutrients and free from chemical processing, they are considered more sattvic, promoting clarity, strength, and overall well-being.
In today’s context, where food is often refined, processed, and stripped of its natural vitality, the return to traditional methods like cold pressing becomes not just a choice, but a necessity. With increasing concerns around lifestyle disorders, environmental impact, and the loss of food integrity, such practices offer a path back to purity, sustainability, and mindful consumption. Cold-pressed oils embody a way of living that honours both the body and the earth.
It was in this spirit that, on the morning of Thursday, 5th March, the Sacred Grove awoke to a bright and sunlit day, the early mist gently lifting as preparations began for a deeply awaited occasion. The entire community – residents and staff, who truly function as one family came together in joyful seva to ready the space for the arrival of our Master.
The occasion marked the inauguration of the cold press unit, lovingly established with the support of a generous donor. From the early hours, everyone was engaged in the final touches: the ghani (wooden press) was decorated, mango fronds were tied as symbols of auspiciousness, and the young bulls were cared for in preparation for their role in the day’s first offering.
In the kitchen, the team stood ready to prepare a wholesome meal of avial, sambar, payasam, and vegetables, some freshly harvested from the Sacred Grove itself. Every space was meticulously cleaned, reflecting both care and devotion as the community prepared to receive Sri M.
Shortly before the appointed time, Sri M arrived and spent a few quiet moments on the library patio, sharing tea and conversation with those gathered. Soon after, everyone assembled at the cold press unit, situated beside the goshala and under the serene presence of Madanagopala.
The inauguration began with the cutting of a floral garland by Sir, alongside the sponsor and members of the community, as the Guru Mantra resonated in the background. The lamp was lit, and prayers were offered to Sri Guru Babaji and Maheshwar Nath Babaji, sanctifying the space and the work to begin.
As part of the ritual, coconut water was first offered to the ghani, followed by groundnuts. Lakshman and Uddhav, the beautifully adorned bulls, were then gently led to the yoke to commence the grinding. As they moved in their steady, circular rhythm, the air filled with devotional songs, voices of the staff rising in praise of Lord Venkateswara, His consort, and Lord Rama.
Marking the auspiciousness of the day, Sri M also planted a peepal sapling in front of Madanagopala. The sapling, brought from Bidar, had been nurtured in a mud pot as part of the ‘My Tree’ initiative, reflecting a conscious commitment to sustainability and reverence for the Earth.
Later, in the Dhanvantari courtyard of ArogyaM, beneath the shade of the tamarind tree, Sri M spent time with the staff and guests. They offered him vegetables grown with care through natural methods near the goshala – simple yet heartfelt tokens of their devotion.
As the first oil was pressed, it was brought to Sri M and offered with reverence as a symbolic culmination of collective effort and grace. He then joined everyone for lunch before departing, leaving behind a sense of quiet fulfillment and blessing.
For all of us at the Sacred Grove, the cold press unit stands for more than just the extraction of oil. It is a living reminder of the Master’s teaching – that through sincere and patient effort, one comes closer to one’s true essence.
Just as the churning of the cosmic ocean revealed the nectar of immortality, so too does steady, devoted work reveal the essence within.
Availability
Cold-pressed groundnut, coconut, and sesame oils will be available in limited, carefully prepared batches.
For enquiries or to place an order, please contact the Sacred Grove team at +91 83339 81304 or email at contact@thesacredgrove.in
