Chinmaya Mission^® Washington Regional Center

Pujya Guruji's Return

February 2007

Leaving Flint, U.S.A, Pujya Guruji’s farewell was of the highest order.  And the Acharyas, brahmacharis, Ashram residents and Mission members in Mumbai, India had absolutely no intention of stopping that, which was already started.  Pujya Guruji’s reception would be nothing less than royal.  Arriving in Mumbai airport 20 minutes early (airlines too have to abide by Guruji’s nature !), Pujya Guruji was welcomed by a number of Acharyas – Swami Bhaskaranandaji, Swamini Vimalanandaji, Swami Advaitanandaji and Swami Advayanandaji.  Dr Sumathi Mukkamala, Guruji’s host in Flint, accompanied Guruji all the way back to ensure that Guruji reached Mumbai comfortably and safely.  Seated in a flower-decked vehicle, Guruji arrived at Sandeepany Sadhanalaya.  Stepping onto home territory lamps, flowers, rangoli, balloons, and smiling faces welcomed Guruji.  Enveloped by resounding Vedic chants and the sounding of conches, a Poorna Kumbha was presented and Swami Advaitanandaji, Swami Sadanandaji and Swami Devatmanandaji accompanied Guruji to address his eager disciples and devotees… 

Entering Saraswati Niliyam, Pujya Guruji was seated upon a throne of embroidered silks while the brahmacharis praised the glory of the Guru through a most touching bhajan.  Our Master had returned.  There was indescribable joy seen in everyone’s faces.  The entire Ashram had come to life.  Sharing his thoughts and thanks Pujya Guruji expressed his happiness while in the States as well as that of being back in Sandeepany once again.  Finally, everyone individually prostrated while Pujya Guruji of course cracked jokes, made observations and offered concern.  He was tired but healthy…

This farewell and welcome was different from the farewell and welcome that took place in December last year.  This time there were tears of gratitude and joy and lots of smiles.  Pujya Guruji is back and we are forever grateful to the Lord, Pujya Gurudev, Guruji’s hosts – the Mukkamala’s, the surgeon – Dr Shetty and all members in Flint, USA.

Also see Return to Mumbai, Guruji's message Chinmaya Mission West

Hari Om!