Maha Yatra 2009 :: Completed

COMPLETED: AUGUST 22 to SEPTEMBER 13 2009

The ancient Puranas of India are huge volumes containing stories of the makings of the universe as well as thrilling tales of innumerable gods and goddesses. The geography of the Puranas coincides with that of the entire Indian sub-continent. Their stories are honored in many ways, not least of which is the recognition of place. Countless places mentioned in these ancient texts are fully alive today and are important places of yatra (pilgrimage). Within their sanctums worship is performed daily to the resident devatas in a tradition that reaches back many hundreds of years. These places where the sacred stories happened are sometimes called tirthas. A tirtha is a place of crossing over and most literally refers to fords of rivers. It also refers to a spiritual crossing place, where the divine is more easily intuited, recognized or experienced.

Namarupa Maha Yatra
The intention of the Maha Yatra is to go, as much as possible, as pilgrims to the sacred temples and to have darshan of the devatas. This will not be tourism. We will travel simply, lodge in comfortable Indian-style accommodations, eat vegetarian meals and dress and behave appropriately according to local custom. We will have ample time for daily practices such as yoga asanas and meditation, as well as discussions and explanations regarding our experiences. Local Swamijis will give discourses and chanting, and arrangements will also be made with priests regarding any rituals that we may wish to request. We will have ample time for the usual sightseeing, shopping and exploring that travelers enjoy. The pace will be relaxed, but this being India, one can expect the unexpected. We will commence in Mumbai and spend some time in preparation: purchasing the proper clothes for visiting temples and explaining various customs and the attitudes which will be helpful for a successful yatra. Traveling in India requires patience, flexibility and humor.

SLIDE SHOW OF MAHA YATRA HERE