AvadhootaDatta Peetham

 

The original schedule of Pujya Swamiji visit to Hanuman Datta Yoga Center in Wallis town near Houston from 9th to 14thJuly had to be cancelled due to the hurricane Beryl’s effects in the region. The Vayu Deva Raga Sagara planned in Royal High School in Brookshire, TX on Saturday July 13th had to be cancelled in view of uncertain situation of hurricane after effects. 

 

But on Thursday evening, with Ashrama rea in Wallis town getting power & water, Pujya Swamiji decided to visit Hanuman DYC for two days.

 

In the morning, Sri Swamiji left Dallas to visit Hanuman Datta Yoga Center in Houston, Texas.

In Houston, Sri Swamiji performed Sri Cakra Puja, while Houston Devotees offered bhajans as Sangeeta Seva, along with offering of Swaradevata Kritis by another pair of vocalists. Later that day, devotees reveled in Divya Nama Sankeertana by Sri Swamiji. During the session, Sri Swamiji spoke on an incident between Sri Sankara Bhagavadpada and Mother Goddess where She appears in a fierce form, a debate happens between them, and they play a game of dice. The petals of Sri Chakra are created around Devi as they play, based on the numbers on the dice. In the morning, Her form became tranquil. Sri Swamiji also emphasized the joy and importance of singing God’s name.

 

Chandi Homa was conducted in Sri Swamiji’s presence. Following this, Sri Swamiji performed Sri Cakra Puja, while devotees chanted Lalitha Sahasranamam. Then, Sri Swamiji blessed the Chandi Yaga sponsors. The winners of the Hanuman Datta Yoga Center’s Nadopasana Carnatic music competition were also recognized by Sri Swamiji. The winners who were present are as follows, and were blessed by Sri Swamiji: ***. Vinootha Veerubhotla (9-11 age group category, first place in Swarajathi/Jathiswaram, special mention in Varnam), ***. Goda Hitesh (9-11 age group category, 1st place in Keertanam, 2nd in an additional category), and ***. Aaradhana Vedam (12-14 age group, 3rd in Keertanam, special mention in Manodharamam/Kalpanaswara). A mala was offered to Sri Swamiji on behalf of Hanuman Datta Yoga Center. Sri Swamiji then blessed devotees with Anugraha Bhashana, explaining a “chutuku.” – (Limerick type) short advice conveying knowledge - about teaching young children with kindness and encouraging their efforts. Sri Swamiji spoke on the calming power of the moon on the mind, as well it’s connection to Sri Rama’s name as “Ramachandra.”  The moon removes sorrow, Ganga removes sins, Guru does both. Sri Swamiji summarized a story between a king and a Guru; the king visits the Guru, who is found laughing hysterically. The Guru explains to the confused king that the king has many worries and responsibilities, but we should also keep the mind happy. While explaining this story, Sri Swamiji laughed heartily, making devotees do the same. Sri Swamiji also said to focus on positives, instead of fixating on negatives. Sri Swamiji said he came immediately to Houston once the hurricane had settled a little; the devotees' love and Sri Swamiji’s love made Him come despite the canceled programs. Sri Swamiji spoke on the special red stone which will be used for the murti planned for the Houston temple and its significance, representing Sita Mata/Kalikamba’s color, as Mother Goddess is on Hanuman’s shoulder. Sri Swamiji spoke on plans for the Houston temple, and Houston devotees presented the same. Devotees came forward to donate towards the project. In the evening, Sri Swamiji returned to Dallas.