Guru Puja Day, July 4th 2009

Rosemary Webber

Arrived at the Ashram on Friday afternoon and wondered how it would be without Indar Ji but he was there, guiding and watching, telling us to carry on.
I was very privileged to join Indar Ji in the North London days.  Sometimes we were at his house or in the local hall for our Saturday yoga class.  He has taught me so much over the years, which has helped me immeasurably. My husband’s illness has been a big tragedy for our family for many years but Indar was always encouraging.
Guru Puja Day was as always, a ceremony to treasure and remember the peace of the Ashram, sharing of food, in silence, walking in the garden, talking to friends.
What a legacy Indar Ji has left us all, may we celebrate his life each time.

Jenny Newman

On Friday 3rd July there was excitement in the air as we looked forward to Guru Puja Day and some yogis were able to stay for the day of silence on the Sunday.  Ten of us stayed over on the Friday including Rosemary and Tricia from the Isle of Wight, it was so nice to see them.  Also it was lovely to see Karl who brought Sarah and Celia to the Ashram for the first time.
After the arrival of other regular and devoted members, Saturday started with chanting followed by Havan Yajna, the sacred fire ceremony. Our honoured guest was Swami Nirliptananda Ji; it really is a blessing to be in his calming, humble presence. He reminded us of the importance of Guru Puja Day.  In the East it is regarded, as being even higher than Mother’s or Father’s Day as the Guru is the one who has put you on the spiritual path, has given you spiritual birth.  He has removed the ignorance and brought light – knowledge.
Swami Nirliptananda Ji said some prayers for beloved Swami Indrananda Ji and after Havan we all went outside in the garden and placed flower petals on Guruji’s Samadhi stone offering our own personal prayers and blessings.  Shirley also generously shared with us some of her experiences in her life with Guruji. This was quite amusing although gradually, gently, he was giving her more and more responsibility no doubt preparing her for the leading role that she now has and does so beautifully.
Swami Nirliptananda Ji then unveiled an amazing statue of Swamiji Indrananda Ji, designed, sculptured and donated by Gill Pendreich (Gill used to attend the classes in North London). Everyone agreed it was a fine work of art; it could not have been better.  Vickie, Swamiji’s granddaughter honoured it with a lovely garland/mala of flowers, which had been made by Daksha Shah. Each and every donation so kindly given by members and friends of the Centre was also blessed.
Carole Lee who is one of the Trustees then treated us to a wonderful demonstration of postures; it flowed so nicely (see photos).

Following Divine Luncheon, which is always sattvic, delicious and full of flavour and for which we have Raj and Rani to thank, Swami Nirliptananda Ji. gave us an excellent talk which was full of short inspiring stories relating to the Guru/disciple relationship.
Musical items were next on the list, plus we were treated to one of the chapters from Phil’s up and coming book covering his travels with Swamiji. This time it was a visit to Inverness, the stories are always amusing and so interesting, quite enlightening!
The day was brought to a close with a lovely meditation led by Avril.
After cake and tea it was time for my journey home; on the way I reflected how well everything had gone, how well Shirley had organized everything and what a lovely day everyone was sure to have tomorrow.

Hari Om Tat Sat