Kalash Yatra marks start of Bhagwat Katha in Kullu
The followers of Swami Gitanand Ji Maharaj Bhikshu took out a Kalash Yatra in Akhara Bazar, Kullu on Friday, marking the commencement of the seven-day Bhagwat Katha at Gita Ashram, Ramshila.
The event began with a procession from Ramshila to Akhara Bazar, featuring a large gathering of devotees carrying sacred Kalash and flags. Accompanied by traditional musical instruments and devotional hymns, the participants danced and chanted, creating a spiritually vibrant atmosphere. Women devotees filled their Kalash with water from the Beas at the Hanuman Temple before placing them on their heads and parading through the market area.
Renowned orator Pandit Ajay Moudgil of Kullu will deliver the Bhagwat Katha daily from 1 pm to 5 pm, followed by a Bhandara (community feast) at the Ashram.
Nirnayak Katyayan, a devotee, shared that the annual event, Varshikotsav, has been observed since 2004, driven by the collective efforts of the Ashram’s followers. This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the event and the 6th anniversary of the idol installation at the newly built temple.
Devesh Mishra, another devotee, spoke about the spiritual significance of the celebrations and expressed gratitude for the blessings of Sadguru Gitanand Ji Maharaj ‘Bhikshu’. He also extended a heartfelt invitation to the public to visit the Ashram and experience its divine ambiance.
Special spiritual discourses will be delivered by Shri Swami Muktananda Ji ‘Bhikshu’ and Shri Swami Kiran Ji ‘Bhikshu’ from Geeta Kutir Tapovan, Haridwar, who will grace the gathering with their presence and teachings.
The main host of the Bhagwat Yagya expressed humble gratitude to God and Guru for the opportunity to organise the sacred event. A daily Brahmbhoj will be held at 5 pm following the Katha.
A special Bhajan Sandhya will be organised on May 26, featuring devotional music and cultural performances, followed by a Dham feast. From May 23 to 29, daily Devi Poojan will be conducted in the morning, with the Katha in the afternoon and Bhandara in the evening. The festivities will conclude on May 30 with Havan, Kanya Poojan, Poornahuti and a grand Bhandara. The Gita Ashram family has warmly invited the entire community to participate in the spiritual celebrations and receive divine blessings.
