Ramakrishna Saradashrama, Ponnampet, hosted a four-day residential spiritual retreat from October 14th to 17th, 2024. Approximately 126 devotees participated in this spiritual gathering.
The retreat commenced with Vedic chanting by Swami Mahapremananda and Swami Bhunathananda. Swami Muktidananda ji inaugurated the event by lighting a lamp and delivering the inaugural address. Swami Parahitananda extended a warm welcome to all attendees.
Over the course of the three-day retreat, several esteemed Swamis from the Ramakrishna Order addressed the devotees, including Swami Bodhaswarupananda, Swami Vireshananda, Swami Dharmavratananda, Swami Tadyuktananda, Swami Shantivratananda, and Swami Mahamedhananda. Additionally, Dr. Ananta Ram, a renowned speaker, contributed to the program daily.
The retreat incorporated guided meditation, yoga classes, devotional singing by Swami Tadyuktananda and Swami Dharmavratananda, and Ashtottara Archana by Swami Dharmavratananda and Swami Parahitananda.
Highlights of the retreat included:
- Dhyana and readings from “The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna” by Swami Bodhaswarupananda before the sacred “Dhuni-Agni” after the vesper service.
- Deepa Puja and Sri Sharada Devi Astottara Puja performed by devotees on Poornima Day (October 17th).
- A question-and-answer session led by Swami Shantivratananda.
The retreat concluded with a valedictory function.
