Chinmaya Mission UK celebrates Gurudev Jayanti!

‘The Science of Happiness: Vedanta – Universal Wisdom for Modern Times’ event, took place on 7 May in the centre of London, attracting a crowd of over 650 people throughout the day. The attendees, who hailed from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds, most of whom who had never previously heard of Chinmaya Mission or of Pujya Gurudev, were treated to a day of Self-discovery through a wide variety of workshops and activities.

The centrepiece of the day was an exhibition, which guided visitors through 10 fundamental propositions on the science of happiness, whilst encouraging reflection on such fundamental questions such as: ‘Where is happiness located?’, ‘If you get everything you desire will you be happy?’ and ‘What factors contribute to real happiness?’

Having kindled their curiosity, a whole host of talks, workshops and activities for all ages were on offer for those wanting to delve deeper. This was truly a day for the whole family – with Ayurvedic cooking demonstrations, screenings of ‘On a Quest’, yoga for children, adults and seniors, fusion music and much, much more, keeping attendees and sevaks engaged and entertained for the entire day. The event concluded with a beautiful and divine concert by the Spronk Family of Chinmaya Mission Holland, entitled ‘The Ornamentation of Silence’, which illustrated Vedantic values such as satsang, devotion and gratitude to the teacher through the soulful music of the violin and cello.

For the many sevaks who worked tirelessly to bring this event to fruition, this glorious day was an opportunity to offer their love, gratitude and devotion at the feet of Pujya Gurudev. All left the event feeling energised, and ready for a day of seva and contemplation on 8 May.

Pujya Gurudev’s 100^th birthday was marked in style with 200 devotees gathered at Chinmaya Mission UK’s home, Chinmaya Kirti. The day commenced with welcoming the return to Chinmaya Kirti of Pujya Gurudev’s silver padukas, which had been on a yatra to the homes of numerous sevaks and devotees across London. Highlights of the day’s event included a samashti paduka puja, personal stories of transformation as a result of coming into contact with the wisdom and divine grace of Pujya Gurudev, and an explanation of the Chinmaya Mission pledge followed by individual devotees writing their own pledges for their personal spiritual sadhana. The day’s festivities ended with mahaprasaad and a melodious concert by CHYK Soul.

Please click on these links for the photographs of the celebrations on 7th and 8th May.