Imagine a place where colors dance in the air, smiles pour out amidst sacred chants, and the very essence of spirituality envelops you like a warm embrace. This was the magical atmosphere at the JKYog Bhakti Ashram, Odisha, during the 5-day Holi retreat—an experience that crescendoed into a colorful symphony of devotion and joy.
Each day of the retreat was a treasure trove of profound Vedic teachings from Swami Mukundananda ji, interspersed with vibrant festivities and soulful kirtans. This was more than just a celebration; it was an immersive journey that deepened our connection with the Divine. Here is a glimpse into the heartfelt moments.
A Holy Pilgrimage
Har Har Mahadev! Gopeshwar Mahadev ki Jay!
The shivir commenced with the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, dedicated to the worship of Bhagavan Shiv. This scared day beckoned participants to embark on a transformative Teerth Yatra (pilgrimage). With warm smiles and hearts filled with reverence, enthusiasts entered the sanctuary of spirituality, the JKYog Ashram, in Odisha, India.
With radiant energy, Swamiji welcomed all, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among the diverse congregation. His presence felt like a lighthouse guiding everyone to a safe harbor. As the devotees gathered, from India and worldwide, they were all united in their shared aspiration for spiritual growth and inner transformation.
Swamiji emphasized the importance of practicing silence (maun) within the ashram, encouraging devotees to constantly remember God and Guru. He stressed on the power of discipline and focused practice for spiritual elevation. These simple yet powerful guidelines created an ideal environment for deepening one's journey.
A Blessed Beginning with Shivratri Celebrations
As the day unfolded, the celebration of Shivratri marked a blessed beginning. The sacred festivities began with a soulful Aarti, performed with deep love and seva bhav (spirit of service). It was a divine spectacle as the earnest prayers of devotees harmonized with the sounds of Om Namah Shivaya. With the blessings of Gopeshwar Mahadev, the air was infused with transcendental energy, paving the way for all to connect to the cosmic consciousness.
This was followed by a grand Parikrama (circumambulation), where Swamiji and the participants walked around the ashram premises. The air echoed with chants of "Nari Tanu Dhari Shambho Gopi Prem Daan Dede"— a prayer to Lord Shiv to bestow the divine gift of Gopi Prem (pure, selfless love for God). Devotees swayed and sang with immense joy along with Swamiji, their devotion shining through every step. The coordinated rhythmic drumbeats made the experience even more divine!
As the sun's golden rays dipped below the horizon, the ashram was bathed in a soft, golden light. The first day of the Shivir reached its zenith with the majestic Rudrabhishek and Maha Aarti of Devo ke Dev Mahadev. With great devotion and reverence, Swamiji performed the Panchamrit Abhishek Seva of Bholenath ji’s Shiv Ling Swaroop, the Utsav Vigrah of Gopeshwar Mahadev. The collective aura became electrifying as each one person poured their devotional offerings.
Under the veil of darkness, illuminated only by the flames of devotion, the participants then gathered for the thunderous Maha Aarti at midnight. The divine vibrations resonated deep within every heart, filling them with bliss and a profound sense of connection to the Divine. When the ceremony concluded, attendees were left immersed in divine ecstasy, their spirits soaring high with the transcendental experience.
Timeless Wisdom of the Upanishads
No spiritual journey is complete without the knowledge that feeds the soul. Swamiji’s enlightening discourses on the Ishopanishad unfurled the deep spiritual wisdom hidden within this sacred text. He began with "The Supreme Brahman is perfect and complete," emphasizing how God remains ever-complete, untouched by creation, reduction, or change.
Swamiji’s words painted a vivid picture of the eternal truth: just as the ocean remains full even with waves crashing and receding, the infinite nature of the Divine is a constant presence within us. It was a moment of profound realization—an awakening to the oneness of all creation.
And then came the meditation session—an oasis of tranquility amidst the celebrations. In those sublime moments, time stood still as everyone sat together in silence, absorbing the revelation of completeness within themselves.
The Power of Morning Sadhana
The second day of the retreat began before dawn, during Brahma Muhurta, the most auspicious time for spiritual practices. It is said that during these hours, the mind is calm, making it an ideal time for meditation and connection with God.
After the morning sadhana session, seekers joyfully gathered for a powerful Hari Naam Sankirtan in Hanumath Paddhati. Swamiji, standing at the forefront, led the kirtan with divine fervor. The sound of chants wafted through the air, carrying with it a sense of oneness and devotion. Chanting the holy names of Radhe Govind felt as if divine energy was being etched into the very fabric of the hearts and minds of all present.
Divine Leelas of Shree Radha Krishna
The second day saw the community celebrating the Nauka Vihar Leela of Shree Radha Rasik Bihari—a divine pastime reminiscent of the playful interactions between Lord Krishna and Radha ji. The participants gathered around a beautifully decorated boat, which carried the idols of Shree Radha and Krishna across a serene pool. As the boat floated gracefully, the fragrance of flowers permeated the environment, creating a Vrindavan-like atmosphere.
Seekers participated with joy, splashing water droplets on the divine Forms, pushing the boat gently, and offering their prayers. It was a moment of sweet devotion. The pure joy of this celebration was mirrored in the radiant smiles of the participants—each moment a reminder of the playful and loving nature of the Almighty.
The next day featured the Jhulan Seva of Shree Radha Rasik Bihari. The deities of Radha and Krishna were gently swung on a swing adorned in floral finery. The ambience was imbued with devotion as seekers took part in the ceremony, singing melodious kirtans and expressing their love and service to the divine Couple.
Deep Dive into the Ishopanishad
The lecture series continued with more powerful discourses from Swamiji on the Ishopanishad focussing on themes such as detachment and renunciation. Attendees were captivated by Swamiji's narrations, hanging onto every word with rapt attention.
Swamiji expounded on about how all of creation is enveloped by God, and that nothing truly belongs to us. The wisdom imparted was both humbling and uplifting. It reminded everyone of the impermanence of material possessions and the importance of living a life of gratitude, devotion, and selflessness. The discourses were filled with engaging stories, humor, and life-changing insights, providing a framework for the audience to embrace a life of peace and fulfillment.
A Celebration of Divine Love & Service
The cultural programs that followed were a testament to the pure devotion of the attendees. The evening Mehfil was alive with extraordinary talent as devotees, from diverse cultural backgrounds, graced the stage to offer soul-stirring bhajans in various languages. Among the many performances, the Aghori dance stood out, paying homage to Bhagavan Shiv. An overwhelming sense of joy and unity filled the Ashram, reaching every corner. In that sacred space, all boundaries of individuality melted away, revealing the true spirit of Bhakti in all its glory.
This spirit of Bhakti gradually evolved into a beautiful expression of service. As part of the seva initiative, the JKYog team organized the Bhakti Pavilion. Here, devotees had the opportunity to contribute to the Give & Get Campaign towards the construction of Jagadguru Kripalu University. The pavilion featured stalls with plant saplings, devotional apparel, and food stalls offering fresh fruit juices, sandwiches etc. All proceeds from the stalls were dedicated to supporting the university, a beautiful example of selflessness in action.
Soaked in Divine Colors
The Flower Holi ceremony on Day 4 was a beautiful display of joy, love, and devotion. Participants celebrated Holi in its truest spiritual sense, showering flower petals on the vigraha of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj, as an offering to the Divine. The vibrant colors symbolized the blossoming of the heart in divine love.
The Flower Holi celebration transformed the ashram into a canvas of colors and playful laughter. It emphasized the spirit of togetherness and devotion, marking the culmination of an enriching journey. Devotees were drenched in joy as the flowers fell like blissful showers. The entire scene was charged with love, and the sounds of dholaks and mridangs mingled with the air, creating a mystic experience.
A Journey of Spiritual Bliss and Color
The Holi Sadhana Shivir was much more than a festival—it was a journey of the soul. Every moment, with its mix of devotion, spiritual teachings, and joyful celebrations, was a transformative experience that will stay with the participants for years to come.
This retreat was a reminder that life itself is a celebration of divine love. It is about immersing ourselves in the colors of devotion, love, and service. And when we do, we experience a transformation that leaves us filled with inner joy, ready to carry the light of spirituality into every aspect of our lives.
Special Holi Message from Swamiji:
While we celebrate this colorful festival, and busy ourselves with coloring our friends, relatives, and neighbors, and in return getting colored by them, let us strive to make this Holi extra special. Let’s aspire to color our hearts in the devotional colors of Shree Radharani and Shree Krishna.
Call to Action: A Divine Invitation
Join the upcoming Bhakti Kirtan Retreat with Swami Mukundananda from April 18–20, 2025 at the serene Radha Krishna Temple in Dallas. This retreat offers a harmonious blend of devotion, knowledge, and celebration. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, cultural enrichment, or moments of peace, this retreat is perfect for all!
