Rose at 3.30am.
Showered.
Was at Shivananda Samadhi Shrine by 5am.
Attended prayers, meditation, did Abhishekam for Shiva lingam atop Swamiji’s Samadhi.
Fought back the urge to bawl my eyes out, no, my heart, my soul out. No idea why. But felt so much of emotion, gratitude, grace?
Went over to the Vishwanath Mandir. Watched divine abhishekam and archana of Vishwanath backed by a life size Kaalaa Krishna.
Beautiful Aarthi, again fought back tears.
Went to get breakfast at the Dining Hall, being Ekadasi, no rice or food was served, had a steaming hot rejuvenating tea.
Off to the Reception to complete overseas guest registration.
Visited Shivananda Kutir.
Thoughts of Swamiji.
Then to Swami Shivananda’s rooms. Bedroom. Desk where his divine literature and outpourings flowed.
Ganga Snanam/bath.
Sanyasins needed to bathe there so we moved to another ghat.
Took a dip in the freezing cold waters in my bright pink saree.
Colours ran.
Somehow got changed into my housecoat.
Two persistent little boys got us to purchase Ganga Arti plates.
Did abhishekam with Ganga water and archana to Meru and Guru Paduka.
Recited Lalitha Trishati and Ganga stotram.
Took Ganga Artis for Meru, Paduka and Ganga Ma. Let lit plates float away on Her back.
The duo pointed out their school beyond Lakshman Jhula.
Had Kulfi/ice cream.
Showered, washed hung clothes out to dry in the scorching 43 degree heat.
Burning cheeks.
Lunch, prayers first then chappatti, veg curry, vermicelli Payasam, buttermilk. No rice being Ekadasi.
Washed utensils.
Off to the Book shop, purchased some books.
Rested in Room. Fan full blast, doors open, power cuts.
Hotttt.
Evening back to office to complete registration. To sign printouts.
To be contd..
Bavani’s Happy Place 