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Kumbha Mela - Ujjain, 2004 |
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Upcoming Kumbha Mela activities of Siddha Ashram Siddha Ashram was host to several hundred people at the Ujjain Kumbha Mela of 1992. The next Ujjain Kumbha Mela in the 12-year cycle is in 2004. Once again, Siddha Ashram will host some 300 guests, including at least 100 foreign seekers. The following information is offered to explain to those guests, what will be the programs at Siddha Ashram during the 2004 Kumbha Mela: What is Kumbha Mela?Kumbha Mela is the largest spiritual festival known to humanity. It happens every 12 years in each of four places, the next of which is at Ujjain, in central India, in 2004. From all parts of India sadhus, sages, saints, and seers come to share a collective consciousness in celebration of the divine. The festival is punctuated by the taking of holy baths in the Shipra River on April 15, 22, 24, and May 1 and 4. Over 10 million people will attend. Interviews with SadhusUnique to your stay at Siddha Ashram will be visits by the leaders of some 15 of the most esoteric traditions of India. These diverse spiritual leaders will each come on a separate day, and will describe the history, philosophy, and specific practices unique to their tradition. This rare opportunity is being recorded live to produce an educational documentary wherein the audience of seekers engages directly with these spiritual dignitaries. Yoga, Meditation, and other ClassesDaily yoga and meditation classes will be provided. There will also be different types of sadhanas (spiritual practices) taught in lecture sessions. Practical training will be given in methods of pranayama (breathing) and meditation. Philosophy of Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra will also be taughtCultural ProgramsA variety of cultural programs will be provided for the Kumbha Mela residents of Siddha Ashram. These will include spiritual folk dance, stage plays of many deities, spiritual singing and chanting, as well as several special religious pujas, rituals, and fire ceremonies. Natural Healing TherapiesNative Indian practitioners will share natural healing therapies, from spiritual perspectives. These will include Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Yagopathy (fire therapy), Acupressure, and meditation as a spiritual therapy to remove physical and mental illnesses.Accommodations and FoodDuring the Kumba Mela there are thousand of tent cities. You will be staying in specially made huts on the bank of the Shipra River at Siddha Ashram. While the accommodations are rustic, you will find them clean and comfortable. Special kitchens will provide healthy food throughout the festival.Siddha AshramAll of the Kumbha Mela happens immediately around Siddha Ashram, which is on a small hill at the edge of the main bathing area of the river. All of the sadhus come in their procession just in front of the ashram. This is, without a doubt, the best location in Ujjain for experiencing Kumbha Mela.TransportationUjjain is about half way between Mumbai (Bombay) and Delhi, so one can fly into either city. However, transportation from Mumbai (Bombay) is easier, and is recommended. From there you can take a train directly to Ujjain. Or you can take a domestic flight to Indore, and then one hour by taxi to Ujjain.Information and costsThe cost for your stay, including accommodations and all food will be $1000. Transportation will be paid directly by you to whatever provider you choose. As further information is available, it will be added to the website.
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