Puri: It was a unique celebration of “Raja” festival for the enthusiasts of Puri Heritage Walks (PHW) as they came to know about the various forms of “Kriya Yoga” at Hariharananda Gurukulam at Balighat and also got to know regarding “Prana” (life force) is the principal factor behind all activities that occur within the subtle body of a human being.
Yoga is the art of mastering this life force and thereby making life more harmonious and fulfilling. Among the various forms of yoga, “Kriya Yoga” is a unique spiritual discipline that helps elevate human consciousness and enables one to transcend the sufferings associated with material existence.
During the 22nd edition of the PHW, heritage enthusiasts had the opportunity to visit the “gurukulam” and gain valuable insights. They travelled to the Gurukulam, where they received a comprehensive introduction to “Kriya Yoga” from Swami Pujyananda. They learned about the different orders of monks such as Giri, Puri, Bharati and others, as well as the spiritual practices and accomplishments of Mahavatar Babaji, Lahiri Mahasaya, Paramahansa Yogananda, Sanyal Mahasaya, Swami Hariharananda and Swami Prajnananandaji Maharaj.
Swami Pujyananda explained how the practice of yoga enables individuals to regulate their breath and maintain a calm and balanced state of mind. He also highlighted how yogic practice instills the courage to remain fearless in the face of eternal truths such as death, even while living amidst worldly responsibilities. Paramahansa Yogananda played a pivotal role in taking “Kriya Yoga” to a national and global audience.
After paying their respect at the “samadhi” of Yogi Hariharananda Giri, the participants explored the unity trail within the Gurukulam campus. This trail reflects the spirit of interfaith harmony and features statues of revered figures from different faiths, including Lord Shri Rama, Lord Shri Krishna, Jesus Christ, Mother Mary, Mahavira Jina and Lord Buddha. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere, the ‘gurukulam’ also houses a large “goshala” (cow shelter). The walk concluded at the Gurukulam, operated by Prajnana Mission.
In the final phase of the walk, the participants visited the Temple of Maa Narayani at nearby Narayanibanta. On the occasion of “Pahili Raja”, the walkers were delighted to have “darshan” of the revered Vaishnavi deity Maa Narayani in the midst of a picturesque setting enveloped by greenery. Within the temple premises, they also observed several ancient sculptures and a number of unique paintings executed partly in the “Pattachitra” style. The participants were particularly fascinated by the collection of old photographs related to Shrimandir and Puri preserved at the site.
The heritage enthusiasts further enjoyed the festive spirit of “Raja Parba” by swinging on traditional swings tied to ancient trees at Narayanibanta. With this joyful experience, 22nd edition of PHW came to a memorable conclusion. Heritage enthusiasts from Puri, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Rourkela and Khordha participated.