Monthly Highlights – November 24 – Sri Kameswari Foundation

Greetings Everyone!!!

November,being the auspicious Kartika masam, has been a special month filled with devotion,with distinct rituals performed at Gurukulam on sacred days,like Kartika Somavaram,Paurnami,Ksheerabdhi dwadasi,Masa Shivaratri etc.

Known as the “month of light,” Kartika Masa holds immense reverence for its role in nurturing spiritual growth. As highlighted in the Padma Purana, this sacred month is especially dear to both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, with acts of devotion performed during this time believed to bestow great spiritual merit (punya). The Kartika Mahatmya extols the unique sanctity of this month, emphasizing the benefits of austerities, rituals, and acts of charity.

Highlights of November 2024

1.Sri Rudrabhishekam on Auspicious Days

Rudrabhishekam is a profound Vedic ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this ceremony, offerings such as water, milk, and sanctified items are poured over the Shiva Linga while chanting the Sri Rudram, a hymn that glorifies Lord Rudra’s infinite grace. This act of devotion is believed to cleanse the mind and soul, fostering peace, prosperity, and spiritual progress.

At the Sri Kameswari Veda Shastra Gurukulam, under the guidance of Acharya Jammalamadaka Suryanarayana garu, Rudrabhishekam was performed every Monday, on Purnima, and during Masa Shivaratri. Students actively participated by chanting Sri Rudram and supporting the ceremonies. This collective devotion not only deepened our connection with Lord Shiva but also created a spiritually charged atmosphere at the Gurukulam, strengthening community ties.

2. Sri Chakrarchana at the Gurukulam

Sri Chakram has a great spiritual and cultural significance in our Dharma.It is an embodiment of Shiva and Shakti.

Sri Chakrarchana was performed on Krishna Panchami at the Gurukulam by Devi Upasakas Br.Sri Vishnubhatla Gopalakrishna Sarma garu and Br.Sri Jayanti Srinivasa Sarma garu.The worship,which involved mantra chanting and flower offerings,brought participants closer to the grace of the Divine Mother,leaving everyone spiritually uplifted.

3. Gopashtami Celebrations

On Kartika Krishna Paksha Ashtami, we celebrated Gopashtami, a day dedicated to honoring cows, revered as sacred symbols of abundance and nurturance. The event included rituals and prayers, fostering gratitude towards these gentle beings. This celebration highlighted the cow’s vital role in our cultural and spiritual heritage.

4. Kartika Vanasamaradhana at Hyderabad Botanical Garden

Gathering to spend time and enjoy lunch in the garden has become a cherished tradition and an integral part of the spiritual activities observed during Kartika Masa, popularly known as Kartika Vanasamaradhana.

As part of the Vanasamaradhana tradition, members of the Kameswari family gathered at the Botanical Garden in Hyderabad to celebrate amidst nature’s tranquility. The serene environment offered an ideal setting for reflection and community bonding. Families shared meals, played games, and connected through shared traditions, enriching the Kartika Masa experience.

5. Discussions with Kudali Sankaracharya Swamiji

Acharyas Jammalamadaka Suryanarayana garu and Jammalamadaka Srinivas garu met with Kudali Sankaracharya Swamiji at a Rigveda Pathashala in Hyderabad. Their discussions centered on enhancing the Gurukulam’s curriculum and efforts to preserve and propagate Vedic knowledge. Swamiji expressed appreciation for our dedication, encouraging us to continue our mission with greater resolve.

These activities embodied the spiritual vibrancy of Kartika Masa,uniting our community in devotion and shared purpose.We extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated enthusiastically and look forward to continuing these cherished traditions.