Organized in collaboration with Vishvamitra International, the event invites participants of all backgrounds to join a free, open-air yoga session from 9:00 to 11:00 AM. Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Ionian Sea, the gathering promises a morning of mindfulness, movement, and collective harmony.

Pujya Sri Swami Ananda Saraswati, founder of Vishvamitra International and a guiding light in the global Vedantic and yogic community, has long emphasized the transformative power of yoga as a path to inner clarity. His recent teachings, including the launch of Tattva Bodha in Rome, have deepened the understanding of yoga beyond the physical, illuminating its spiritual purpose.

In the lead-up to this year’s celebration, Vishvamitra International has been actively engaged across Italy, hosting yoga and Vedanta sessions in cities like Catania and Rome. A recent event in Catania brought together a vibrant community of practitioners for a day of spiritual immersion and collective practice, further strengthening the organization’s presence in southern Italy.

“Yoga is not merely a practice—it is a way of being that connects us to the Earth, to each other, and to the divine within,” Pujya Sri Swami Ananda Saraswati shared in a recent message. His presence in Siracusa is expected to draw practitioners and admirers from across Europe and beyond.

The event is free and open to all. Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mats and an open heart. For registration and further details, contact Vishvamitra International at visvamitra.international@gmail.com.

As the sun rises over Ortigia on June 21, the collective breath of hundreds will echo a timeless truth: that through yoga, we remember we are one.

The post Siracusa, Italy : International Day of Yoga Under the Guidance of Pujya Sri Swami Ananda Saraswati appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

June 1st – Shri Stelio Dev’s first Nakshatra Birthday

On the auspicious occasion of Shri Stelio Dev’s First Year Nakshatra Birthday, Vishvamitra Gurukulam was happy to host a Sadhu Bhandara on June 1st. This sacred gathering was generously sponsored by Shri Stefano Pipitone and his family, who extended their heartfelt support to make this event truly special.

The bhandara was a moment of community, devotion, and shared blessings, bringing everyone together in the spirit of seva and tradition. May such acts of kindness and divine celebrations continue to inspire and uplift us all

June 4th – Shamatmika’s Nakshatra Birthday

On June 4th, 2025, Sri Krisha Iyer Ganeshan and his family graciously sponsored a Sadhu Bhandara at Vishvamitra Gurukulam, Uttarkashi, on the occasion of their beloved granddaughter Sow. Shamatmika’s Nakshatra Birthday.

Their offering embodies the spirit of seva and devotion, nourishing the revered Sadhus with love and reverence.

The Importance of Sadhu Bhandara at Vishvamitra Gurukulam

The tradition of Sadhu Bhandara is more than an act of charity—it is a sacred offering, symbolizing respect and gratitude towards those who embody the essence of Vedic wisdom and spiritual austerity. Hosting such events at Vishvamitra Gurukulam holds profound significance due to:

• Upholding the Guru-Shishya Tradition – Strengthening the bond between seekers and enlightened sages.
• Spiritual Service (Seva) – Nourishing ascetics fosters humility and compassion.
• Divine Blessings – Serving sadhus is believed to bring prosperity and spiritual elevation.
• Preserving Ancient Wisdom – Supporting renunciants ensures the continuity of sacred teachings.
• Fostering Community Harmony – Encouraging selflessness and unity in spiritual practice.

The Sadhu Bhandaras held at Vishvamitra Gurukulam in June 2025 stand as testaments to devotion, embodying the principles of service, gratitude, and spiritual interconnectedness.

The post Sadhu Bhandaras happened on June 2025 at Vishvamitra Gurukulam appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

May 20, 2025 – Jyothy and Ajit Kamath‘s anniversary

On the auspicious occasion of their wedding anniversary, Smt. Jyothy Kamath and Shri. Ajit Kamath expressed their gratitude through a Sadhu Bhandara at Vishvamitra Gurukulam.

The gathering was met with profound appreciation. The sadhus, embodying divine wisdom, received the offering with blessings, prayers, and heartfelt wishes for the couple’s continued prosperity. As the sacred chants echoed through the Himalayas, the Bhandara became a symbol of pure devotion, reinforcing the values of giving and gratitude. The Kamaths’ noble act stands as an inspiration, reminding us that selfless offerings lead to spiritual fulfillment and divine grace.

May 27, 2025 – Raghav Bharghav’s Nakshatra Birthday

With heartfelt devotion, another Sadhu Bhandara was held on May 27, 2025, generously sponsored by Shri Yaswant Bharghav and his esteemed family on Sri Raghav Bharghav’s Nakshatra Birthday. This sacred event celebrated tradition, communal harmony, and spiritual elevation, bringing together sages, devotees, and seekers in a profound exchange of blessings.

The gracious act of serving sadhu became a moment of spiritual enrichment, reinforcing the importance of sustaining those dedicated to meditation and scriptural study. The sadhus blessed the Bharghav family, sharing their prayers and wisdom, further strengthening the connection between householders and renunciants.

The Importance of Sadhu Bhandara at Vishvamitra Gurukulam

The tradition of Sadhu Bhandara is more than an act of charity—it is a sacred offering, symbolizing respect and gratitude towards those who embody the essence of Vedic wisdom and spiritual austerity. Hosting such events at Vishvamitra Gurukulam holds profound significance due to:

• Upholding the Guru-Shishya Tradition – Strengthening the bond between seekers and enlightened sages.
• Spiritual Service (Seva) – Nourishing ascetics fosters humility and compassion.
• Divine Blessings – Serving sadhus is believed to bring prosperity and spiritual elevation.
• Preserving Ancient Wisdom – Supporting renunciants ensures the continuity of sacred teachings.
• Fostering Community Harmony – Encouraging selflessness and unity in spiritual practice.

The Sadhu Bhandaras held at Vishvamitra Gurukulam in May 2025 stand as testaments to devotion, embodying the principles of service, gratitude, and spiritual interconnectedness. Through the Kamath and Bharghav families’ offerings, the tradition flourished, strengthening the spiritual fabric of Uttarkashi and beyond.

The post Sadhu Bhandaras happened on May 2025 at Vishvamitra Gurukulam, Uttarkashi appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

Vishvamitra YTTC is inspired by the great sage Vishvamitra, known for his wisdom, perseverance, and boundless compassion. This Yoga Teacher Training Course (YTTC) is designed not only to train aspiring yoga teachers but to transform their lives holistically.

Teacher

Swami Ananda Saraswati – A direct disciple of Swami Dayananda Saraswati, Swamiji has dedicated his life to spreading Vedanta, Yoga, and Meditation. Founder of Vishvamitra International Group and Vidya Vahini Trust, Swamiji has written over 40 books and appears on international television, sharing the timeless wisdom of the Vedas. His teachings focus on the integration of yoga and Vedanta to cultivate a balanced and enlightened life.

Location

Nestled in the Himalayan village of Ganeshpur (Uttarkashi District), on the banks of the sacred Ganga, our Gurukulam offers a peaceful and spiritual environment. With breathtaking views and serene surroundings, it is the perfect place to immerse in yoga, Vedanta, and self-discovery.

Course Highlights

A 4-week residential program where discipline and lifestyle form the foundation of training.

Daily Schedule

• Morning Puja & Fire Ritual
• Yoga & Pranayama Practice
• Vedanta & Meditation
• Bhajans & Spiritual Discussions
• Workshops on Ayurveda, Classical Music, and Astrology
• Anatomy & Respiration Studies
• Weekend Excursions to Spiritual Destinations (e.g., Gangotri)

The program provides the essential tools for becoming a confident and authentic yoga teacher, empowering students to teach and manage their own yoga practice.

Why Join Vishvamitra YTTC?

• Traditional teachings with a modern approach.
• Authentic Himalayan experience in a Gurukulam setting
• Guidance from an experienced master & dedicated teachers
• A supportive and like-minded spiritual community

Contact Us

Location: Vishvamitra Gurukulam, Ganeshpur, Uttarkashi, India

Website: www.VishvamitraInternational.org

Email: visvamitra.international@gmail.com

Join us on this transformative journey to deepen your understanding of yoga and Vedanta.

The post Vishvamitra Yoga Teacher Training Course (YTTC) appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

Swamiji will guide us through a spiritual reflection, helping us to:- Understand Dharma- Reflect on the consequences of our actions (Karma)- Learn the path to liberation (Moksha). This unique opportunity will help us deepen our inner knowledge and grow on the path of spirituality.

The post Italy: Swamiji’s satsang is planned on 15th March appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

On March 9, 2025, Swamiji visited the majestic Mount Etna amidst a picturesque snowfall. Mount Etna, located on the east coast of Sicily, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The snowfall added a serene and magical touch to the already awe-inspiring landscape of the volcano. The snow-covered slopes of Mount Etna provided a breathtaking backdrop for Swamiji’s visit, symbolizing purity and tranquility.

The post Swamiji visited Mount Etna amidst the snow fall appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

The members of Visvamitra Gurukulam in Italy welcomed Swamiji at the airport, marking the beginning of this spiritual odyssey.

The post Swamiji welcomed in Italy appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

With the blessings of Swamiji, Kanya Puja along with Sadhu Bhandara was successfully conducted on the day of Vijayadasami. Kanya Puja is an important puja during Navaratri where small girls who represent Mother Goddess are worshipped.

Kanya puja is usually done on Ashtami, Navami or Dasami day of Navartri or Dussera. Goddess Durga’s nine avatars, known as Navadurga, are adored as nine tiny girls. Members of yoga vidya Gurukulam participated in the special Kanya puja and the Sadhu Bhandara.

The post Kanya Puja happened on Vijayadasami appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

The nine day festival of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Mother Durga and her nine avatars – Navadurga. Each day is marked by a unique colour dedicated to mother, embodying distinct virtues and qualities

Day 1 – Shailaputri

The worship of Goddess Shailaputri is undertaken to reach a high state of consciousness. Orange color is dedicated to mother Shailaputri. Orange signifies energy and happiness.

Day 2 – Brahmacharini

This day signifies piousness. Goddess Brahmacharni blesses everyone with success, wisdom and knowledge. White color is dedicated to mother Brahmacharini. White denotes peace and purity.

Day 3 – Chandraghanta

The Goddess, stands for showering supreme bliss through knowledge, and emotional balance. Red color is dedicated to mother Chandraghanta. Red signifies beauty and fearlessness.

Day 4 – Kushmanda

She showers worshippers with energy to grow. The Goddess is believed to have created the world with her divine smile. Royal blue is dedicated to mother Kushmanda. Royal blue signifies health and wealth.

Day 5 – Skandamata

She represents motherly affection. Worshipping the goddess is said to bring wisdom, wealth, power and prosperity. Yellow is dedicated to mother Skandamata. Yellow denotes happiness and brightness.

Day 6 – Katyayani

She is invoked with prayers to put an end to all our inner turmoil. Green color is dedicated to mother Katyayani. Green denotes new beginnings and growth.

Day 7 – Kalaratri

With her worship, devotees get the solace and comfort at night to rest as the goddess destroys the fear of darkness. Seventh night of navratri puja has special significance as it awakens the powers and helps attain siddhis. Grey color is dedicated to mother Kalaratri. Grey signifies the strength of transformation.

Day 8 – Mahargauri

Worshipping her means inviting that energy within the person to propel them forward and be liberated. Purple is dedicated to mother Mahagauri. Purple denotes the power of intellect and peace.

Day 9 – Sidhidhatri

She is worshipped for going beyond the logical mind to explore more. It is said she makes the impossible, possible. Peacock green is dedicated to mother Sidhidhatri. Peacock green signifies the fulfillment of wishes.

Special puja happens at Yoga Vidya Gurukulam in Uttarkashi on all nine nights of Navaratri. Kanya Puja along with Sadhu Bhandara is planned on the day of Vijayadasami. Yoga Vidya Gurukulam wishes everyone a happy Navaratri.

The post Navaratri 2024 at Yoga Vidya Gurukulam – Uttarkashi appeared first on Vidya Vahini.

Early Days of Pujya Swamiji

Swami Dayananda Saraswati was born on Aug.15, 1930, as Natarajan in Manjakudi (Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu) to Gopala Iyer and Valambal and was the eldest of four sons. He had his early schooling in the District Board School at Kodavasal. In Chennai he worked as a journalist for the weekly magazine Dharmika Hindu (run by T. K. Jagannathacharya) and also for erstwhile Volkart Brothers (now Voltas Limited) for sometime. He decided to be a fighter pilot at one point and joined the IAF, but left after six months as he felt suffocated by the regimentation there. Inspired by the enlightening talks of Swami Chinmayananda during 1952–53, Natarajan became actively involved with the then newly formed Chinmaya Mission in various roles. He was made its secretary within the first year of its inception. He attended Sanskrit classes of P.S. Subramania Iyer, a retired Professor of English, who introduced the mode of chanting the Gita verses that is still being followed by Chinmaya Mission and Arsha Vidya Centres.

Swami Chinmayananda instructed Natarajan to set up Chinmaya Mission’s Madurai branch and in 1955 Natarajan accompanied Swami Chinmayananda to Uttarakashi and helped him in the preparation of a Gita manuscript for publication. In Uttarakasi, he met Swami Chinmayananda’s Guru, Swami Tapovanam Maharaj, who advised him, to do japa, meditate and study. Natarajan returned to Madras and took up the editorship of ‘Tyagi,’ a fortnightly magazine of Chinmaya Mission. On the advice of Swami Chinmayananda, Natarajan shifted to Bangalore in 1956 and continued to edit Tyagi which was also moved to that city. During his stay there, Natarajan joined the Sanskrit College in Chamrajpet and had the privilege of studying one on one with Prof. Veeraraghavachariar.

Taking Sanyasa

Pujya Swamiji was given sanyasa by Swami Chinmayananda in 1962 and was given the name Swami Dayananda Saraswati. A year later, he went to Mumbai to the newly inaugurated Sandeepany Sadhanalaya of Chinmaya Mission, where he undertook the responsibility of editing the magazine of the mission Tapovan Prasad. In addition, Swami Dayananda taught chanting of Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads to students of Sandeepany. In November 1963, Swami Dayananda Saraswati undertook a study pilgrimage to Rishikesh and spent three years there, studying Brahma Sutras under Swami Tarananda Giri at the Kailash Ashram.

Proficiency in Sanskrit and other languages

Pujya Samiji was a great exponent of Advaita Vedanta. He kept alive the continuum of a post-Independent tradition, initiated by his ‘Guru’, Swami Chinamayananda, of playing the Hermes for ‘Advaita Vedanta’, largely to an English speaking middle class audience within India and abroad, without diluting the richness of the ‘Sanskritic’ lore that anchors this worldview. The conservative streak, though, in Dayananda Saraswati seemed even more pronounced, given his patient and erudite scholarship in Sanskrit and various basic philosophical texts. His talks and speeches were very simple to understand by people from all walks of life.

A torchbearer of Sanatana Dharma

As Convenor of the ‘Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha’, an effort that he made to bring together the various Hindu pontiffs under one umbrella, he took the lead to articulate a position that any religious conversion per se “is violence”, and “opposed to freedom or religion and the spirit of mutual respect”. The ‘Hindu Dharma Rakshana Samiti’ was seen as being revivalist when he convened a conference in Delhi to prove how river Saraswati was no mythical river and that it had cradled a civilisation.

Swamiji learning Vedanta from Pujya Swamiji

Swami Ananda Saraswati was a disciple of Pujya Swamiji and directly learnt Advaita Vedanta from Pujya Swamiji. Swamiji often recalls fondly the time he spent with Pujya Swamiji as a student, shares his anecdotes and is carrying forward the teaching tradition.

The post Remembering Pujya Sri Swami Dayananda Saraswati appeared first on Vidya Vahini.