Start of Navaratri

On 8th October 2010, Navaratri, the great Durga festival, started with special Pujas, Yajnas and prayers.
Navaratri is celebrated twice a year in Omkarananda Ashram, in spring and in autumn.
As always, elaborate arrangements were made in the open Yajnashala of Omkarananda-Kamakshi-Devi Mandir. The Altar with Gurudev, Durga Maa and other Devis was immensely beautifully decorated with shining lights surrounding them. As every year the first day of Navaratri ended with a two and a half hour Yajna, Bhajans and final Arati in the evening.

	Above: Swamini Tyagarajananda, together with the Priests, performs Yajna. Left: The beginning of Navaratri-Pujas.

Arati by Swami Vishveshwarananda.

Arati by Kumari Somashekhari.

Visit of Rajnikant on 10th October 2010

Kumari Somashekhari is offering Ashram-literature to the famous actor Rajnikant.

On the third day of Navaratri, an unexpected visitor came to have the Darshan of Omkarananda-Kamakshi-Devi in Omkarananda Ashram Himalayas. To the surprise of many people, who were nearby, it was one of the most celebrated Indian Top Actors from the South, Rajnikant, a rare personality, who is considered the Number One in the South Indian film world. Though being among the highest ranking in the actor's world of India, he is exceptionally humble and that is not so easy, since he is admired by Millions and Millions of people in India and abroad. Rajnikant is a staunch devotee of the Vedic culture and of a very religious nature. He likes to visit Temples and offer prayers. He was touched by the beauty of the Omkarananda-Kamakshi-Devi Temple, the holy, peaceful atmosphere, the cleanliness, and the arrangement in the typical South Indian style of this Temple. Rajnikant was received by Kumari Somashekhari, Swami Vishveshwarananda and Swami Satchidananda, as well as Swami Tyagarajananda. Many people, who were present, could have a photo with this great actor.

Rajnikant in a joyous mood.

Swamini Tyagarajananda talks about her visit to Chennai.

From Left to right: Swamini Tyagarajananda, Swami Satchidananda, Swami Gurukripananda,
Kumari Somashekhari and Swami Vishveshwarananda with the Star from the South.