The Bharatiya Sanskriti and Sampradaya (BSS) Team in Reading organised a grand celebration on May 12 in honour of the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya with a series of cultural and spiritual activities.
The event - which was also graced by Sri Bharati Tirtha Mahaswamiji and Sri Vidhushekhara Bharati Swamiji from Sringeri Sharada Peetham, Karnataka, and Brahmasri Pasarlapati Srinivasa Bangaraiah Sharma, Founder of Tatvam charitable trust - aimed to commemorate the teachings and contributions of the esteemed philosopher and theologian, whose work remains influential across generations.
The celebrations commenced with a traditional Ganapati Puja, a ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, followed by the Rudrabhishekam, a sacred ceremony involving the worship of Lord Shiva. The atmosphere was filled with the resonant chanting by 25 Ritviks, creating a serene and contemplative environment. The recitation of Birudavali and the Shankaracharya Astottara Shatanaamavali added to the solemnity of the occasion, further elevating the spirit of reverence and gratitude among the attendees.
One of the key highlights of the celebration was the Pallaki Seva, a ceremonial procession that symbolised Adi Shankaracharya's journey and his enduring presence among the devotees. This procession was accompanied by soulful Carnatic hymns, captivating saxophone renditions, and the rhythmic beats of the Chendi drum. The harmonious blend of these musical elements created an uplifting and spiritually charged ambiance.
MORE LIKE THIS…
Throughout the day, the event featured recitations of Shankaracharya's compositions, including the ‘Dakshinamurthy Stotram’, ‘Kanakadhara Stotram’, and ‘Thotakaastakam’. These chants, performed by both Ritviks and devotees, served as a melodious tribute to the Acharya's legacy and his contributions to spiritual literature.
A significant segment of the celebration was a discourse delivered by Sri Rajagopalan, who elaborated on the life and teachings of Adi Shankaracharya. His talk shed light on the profound impact of Shankaracharya's work and the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta. Rajagopalan emphasised the relevance of these teachings in contemporary life, highlighting their ability to guide individuals towards spiritual enlightenment.
The event also saw active participation from various Dharma Karyas (spiritual endeavours) such as Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK, HES, HSN, GB-SRS, and TARA. These groups organised activities like Sita Rama Kalyanam and Ayyappa Swamy Puja, showcasing their dedication to preserving and promoting cultural and spiritual traditions. Their contributions added to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the day and underscored the importance of community engagement in such celebrations.
MORE LIKE THIS…
The BSS Team's celebration of Adi Shankaracharya Jayanti was a fitting tribute to the Acharya’s teachings and legacy. It fostered a sense of community and shared cultural heritage among the attendees. The event not only paid homage to Adi Shankaracharya but also provided a platform for individuals to connect with their cultural roots and engage in meaningful spiritual practices.
Overall, the celebration was marked by a deep sense of reverence and gratitude, making it a memorable occasion for all who participated. The harmonious blend of rituals, music, and discourse created an enriching experience, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of the devotees.
