13 Oct 2024, Amritapuri Ashram – Navaratri Celebrations
The vibrant Navaratri celebrations began on 3rd October and continued with great devotion and enthusiasm. Each day of the auspicious nine-night festival, the Kalari resounded with special pujas, bhajans, and chanting of Devi hymns. A traditional Bommakolu display at the Kali Temple captivated devotees, featuring beautifully arranged statues of animals, birds, plants, humans, devas, and mahatmas.
In the main hall, a special altar honoring the Divine Feminine was set up with beautiful images of Durga, Saraswati and Amma, backed by an intricate backdrop. The festival honored the power of the Divine Mother, and on the 7th day evening, books, musical instruments, and tools were placed for puja in a traditional Saraswati puja ceremony. Each evening, Amma would come to lead the devotees in chants, surrounded by children offer flowers at the altar, and impart simple yet profound instructions to transform every action into an act of worship. Amma reminded everyone, “Surrender is the key. Only then will the flower of your heart blossom.”
On Vijaya Dasami, the culmination of Navaratri, Amma performed the sacred Vidyarambham ceremony, by initiating all into the world of letters and knowledge. Afterwards, Amma personally initiated little children and blessed them as they embarked on their journey of learning.
In Amma’s message, {read message} she emphasized the importance of balancing wealth, wellness, and wisdom. She spoke about how knowledge, will, and action must work together harmoniously for better living. To lead a life filled with peace and happiness, Amma provided a list of resolutions to be practiced daily.
The celebrations were elevated with a grand Sangeeta Archana—a musical offering to Goddess Saraswati. Over 400 people, dressed in white, came together for this devotional musical performance. The ensemble featured 152 tabla players, 34 harmoniums, 86 Kaimanis a Guitar, a Veena, a Gangira, a Mridangam, a Violin, and more than 150 singers. The group sang classical varna and bhajans, with an enthralling jugalbandi adding a special touch to the performance. The program lasted for over 45 minutes, leaving everyone in a state of devotional bliss and gratitude.
While Amma continued giving darshan to devotees, ashram children presented the Devi Kavacham, further enhancing the spirit of devotion and celebration during the sacred festival.
-Dass
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