From March 29th to 31st, 2024, the North America Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple at Namadwaar Houston was abuzz with spiritual fervor and harmony as hundreds of devotees gathered from around North America to celebrate Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal in the presence of Sri Swamiji’s disciple, Sri Ramanujamji. This grand event not only marked the joyful anticipation of the new, traditional Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple that is going to be built in the premises, but also showcased the unity and diversity of our pan-America satsang, hailing from various regions of India.
The Utsav was blessed with perfect spring weather, sunny with patches of clouds, creating an ideal setting for the festivities. More than 120 devotees traveled from across the United States, reflecting the widespread desire to seek satsang with Sri Swamiji’s devotees and other like-minded devotees, as well as the blessings of Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal. The local Houston devotees extended warm hospitality, opening their homes and hearts, ensuring a comfortable experience for all attendees. Along with the presence of Sri Ramanujamji, we were also blessed with the presence of Sri Swamiji’s disciples, Sri Venkatesanji from India, as well as Sri Gadadharanji who has been blessed by Sri Swamiji for Nama Pracharam in North America.
On Day 1, the Utsav began with Prabodhanam at 8 am, awakening the divine deities and setting a reverent tone for the day. This was followed by soul-stirring kirtans and Ashtapadi renditions, echoing throughout the temple. Sri Ramanujamji then gave wonderful pravachan on one of Sri Swamiji’s favorite kirtans on Srinivasa Perumal, “Venkatachalesha Pahimam”, a composition of Sri Vijayagopalaswami. In his talk, Sri Ramanujamji delved into the profound significance of the devotional song, enriching our understanding and connection to Sri Perumal.
The evening was marked by a majestic Kudirai vahanam procession, where the yugala
murtis Madhuri Sakhi sameta Premika Varadhan, adorned in their vibrant silks and floral garlands, majestically rode throughout the temple premises. The atmosphere, filled with the chants of namasankirtan, mirrored the sacred processions at Sri Swamiji’s Madhurapuri ashram in India and drew everyone into its collective rhythm.
Sri Gadadharanji then commenced his enlightening series on Sri Venkatesha Vaibhavam from chapters of Sri Sri Anna’s Divyadesa Vaibhavam Grantha, discussing why Sri Srinivasa Perumal chose to manifest in Tirupati. The day concluded with a serene session of Divya Namam led by the ladies, their melodious voices weaving a tapestry of devotion that captivated all present.
The second day brought an insightful discourse from Sri Ramanujamji on the essential virtues of atma gunam, shraddha, and the path of spiritual growth, encouraging deeper personal introspection. In a particularly divine moment that afternoon, the hall hushed as Sri Ramanujamji fostered a Tirupati Darshan, inviting each devotee to individually seek darshan of Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal. The sannidhi was dimly lit, creating an intimate atmosphere where each person could quietly admire Perumal’s divine form and offer personal prayers.
In the evening, the majestic Garuda Vahanam procession took place, followed by Sri Gadadharanji’s captivating stories about Perumal’s divine leelas on earth and the sacredness of the seven hills of Tirumala.
As the evening settled, the highlight of the day unfolded with a Deepotsavam, where all artificial lights were switched off, leaving only the ambient glow of oil and camphor lamps. In the quiet hall, as Ramanujamji drew back the curtain, small flickering diyas pierced the darkness, softly illuminating the majestic form of Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal. Perumal’s intricate alankaram shimmered in the dim light, creating a profound sensory experience that was both intimate and awe-inspiring. It felt as though a seamless portal had opened to Tirupati, with us standing there awed in witness of something timeless. We felt as though we had been transported to the sacred temple of Tirupati Venkateshwara itself, with Perumal’s divine presence palpable and bringing tears of joy and devotion to many eyes. Under this enchantment, the day was capped off with melodious Deepotsavam bhajans.
The final day began with a powerful Sahasranama Laksharchana by 100 male devotees in an offering that lasted over an hour, with our collective prayers and colorful flowers offered at the feet of Perumal. The festivities continued with the celebration of Padmavati Kalyanam and a dance performance by Kum. Madhuri Murali, followed by Kalyana Ashtapadi.
Sri Venkatesanji delivered an insightful speech on the importance of temple worship and the works of our Sri Swamiji to restore many temples across India. He then shared the meticulous plans for the upcoming Sri Perumal temple, ensuring that the temple will stand as a beacon of spiritual heritage for generations to come. Sharing that Sri Swamiji had ordained that Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal shall face north from this southern end of the United States, thus facing all of North America, and overseeing and protecting it. This is why it is called the North America Sri Aishwarya Srinivasa Perumal Temple.
In the afternoon on Day 3, Gopa Kuteeram students showcased their artwork and Hari katha learned in their special clubs, affirming the vibrant future of our community and highlighting the dedication of parents to instill our culture in children. The Utsav concluded with heartfelt kirtans and a collective recitation of Hanuman Chalisa, seeking blessings for ongoing and future endeavors.
Reflecting on the three days, the Utsav felt like an extension of Sri Swamiji’s Madhurapuri ashram, filled with the same spirit of devotion and community. We are truly blessed to have the opportunity to do kainkaryam for our beloved Guru Maharaj, serving in His divine mission. Though we were short on sleep, our hearts were full of bhakti, strengthening our resolve to serve and grow in our satsang and support the forthcoming temple.
Radhe Radhe
Anirudh Narayan, San Fransisco, CA
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https://godivinity.org/newsletters/namadwaar-newsletter-may-2024/
