Date: 19-Sep-2024
Location: Chinmaya Mission, Pondicherry
On 19 September 2024, a significant training program on spirituality was organised by Sarvam in collaboration with Chinmaya Mission at the Chinmaya Mission campus in Pondicherry. The event was attended by 21 dedicated volunteers from Sarvam, Puducherry, and was led by an experienced Acharya from Chinmaya Mission, who has devoted her life to spiritual teachings and practices.The primary focus of this one-day training was to introduce participants to the fundamental principles of spirituality, its relevance in everyday life, and its contribution to personal development. The Acharya emphasised the role spirituality plays in cultivating inner peace, fostering mindfulness, and promoting emotional well-being. She explained how spirituality helps individuals find meaning and purpose in life, providing a pathway to connect with something greater than oneself. Participants learned how spiritual practices, such as meditation and prayer, can enhance self-awareness and resilience, essential traits for facing life’s challenges.
A key part of the training was dedicated to understanding the cultural and spiritual significance of poojas (ceremonial worship). The Acharya elaborated on the purpose of performing poojas for deities, explaining that these rituals act as a bridge between the individual and the divine. Poojas serve various purposes, including expressing gratitude, seeking blessings, and purifying the mind and heart. They are symbolic acts of surrendering one’s ego and aligning with the cosmic order, offering spiritual guidance and protection.
The process of conducting a pooja was also thoroughly explained. The Acharya described the steps involved, from purifying the body and mind, to invoking the deity with sacred mantras, and making offerings such as flowers, food, and incense. Each action, including lighting a lamp and performing aarti (a ritual of light), carries deep spiritual significance, reinforcing devotion and elevating the practitioner’s consciousness. The pooja concludes with prayers or meditation, seeking peace, prosperity, and protection.
At the end of the training, the participants gained a profound understanding of the importance of spirituality in their lives. They expressed their commitment to incorporating the principles discussed into their daily routines, including regular meditation, practicing mindfulness in every action, and fostering compassion towards themselves and others. Additionally, they pledged to engage in self-reflection and maintain an attitude of gratitude. Their dedication extended beyond personal transformation, as they committed to sharing this knowledge with people in surrounding villages, aiming to spread the positive impact of spirituality within their communities.
This training program was not just an educational experience but a transformative one, designed to inspire participants to live a more conscious, mindful, and compassionate life. The initiative seeks to expand the reach of spiritual teachings and enrich the lives of individuals across the region.