Maha Shivarathri 2011
Sunday, July 10th, 2011
2nd and 3rd March 2011: Shivarathri , the religious festival that signifies the fulfillment of spiritual efforts, has been one of the dotted days in the festive calendar of Prasanthi Nilayam over the years.
This year, Shivarathri was celebrated on the 2nd March with great devotional fervour, attended by thousands of devotees.
In the evening Bhagawan arrived into the Sai Kulwant Hall at 1815 hrs. Bhajans that has been the crux of the festivity began at 1850 hrs. to continue throughout the night.
Bhagawan, after presiding over the session on stage returned to Yajur Mandiram at 1925 hrs. Student groups, both boys and girls, led the bhajans and many other groups representing various Prasanthi Institutions along with regional and international groups relished the opportunity to sing for allotted slots of half-an-hour during the night.
The next morning, the Bhajans by the students reached the crescendo as the night-long vigil was coming to an end. The thousands assembled were immersed in the bhajans with devotional intensity rooted on the all-powerful name of the Lord.
Bhagawan arrived at 0900 hrs., directly in His chair much to the merriment of devotees. A quick round of darshan followed before Bhagawan arrived on stage. Bhajans continued till 0930 hrs. when Bhagawan indicated Mangala Arathi.
Prasadam – delicious sweet rice pudding and tamarind rice – was distributed to the entire audience ending the fast of the night. Closing the session, Bhagawan retired to Yajur Mandiram at 0940 hrs.
Poornachandra Auditiorium that served as an additional venue also was blessed by Bhagawan’s presence, for short sessions, both on March 2nd night and March 3rd morning.
