The Kumbhabhishekam ceremonies for the inauguration of the renovated Chinmaya Maruti complex held July 24-26 attracted a large number of devotees. The grand Sanctum Sanctorum dedicated to Lord Hanuman was consecrated with a prayer conducted by several priests including many from the Sri Lakshmi Temple in Ashland, MA.

The auditorium, which seats nearly 350 people was used for spiritual discourses. music and dance concerts. Lord Hanuman was central to all the celebrations. On Saturday Swami Shantananda discourse provided insights into the famous Hanuman Chalisa written by Saint Tulasidas. In the style of his Guru, Swami Chinmayananda, Swami Shantananda used great wit and wisdom to provide insight into this hymn.

The children attending Bal Vihaar at Chinmaya presented a wonderful orchestral rendition of several devotional Hymns including the famous Ganesha Pancharatnam.  They also presented Deep Dance done under the guidance of Smt. Chand Sripad.

Smt. Sunanda Narayanan presented a Bharatanatyam dance set to the Hanuman Chalisa. Choreographed by her Guru, Smt. Radha the item detailed many wonderful tales from the Ramayana. The presentation was a great success and drew standing ovation from the audience. Her students also presented Vande Matram and a tillana. The festivities continued on Sunday as well when students of Sridevi Thiumalai and Jothi Raghavan presented a few dance items.

The atmosphere was very festive with food stalls and handicraft booths. Dr. Dwarkanth, who is one of the founding members of this organization presented a token of recognition to the Shilpi (sulptor) Shri Rabindranath Tagore who along with his wife helped create the Sanctum Sanctorum.

The renovation is not yet complete. When it is complete, judging by the positive energy in the crowds that attended the inauguration, it is clear that this institution will become a very important place for Indians in New England.

 

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