The sacred festival of Vaikuntha Ekadashi was observed with immense spiritual fervour and cultural grandeur at the ISKCON temple in Hubli–Dharwad on Tuesday. The day was marked by a series of devotional rituals and vibrant programmes that attracted thousands of devotees seeking blessings.
Sacred Rituals and Continuous Devotion
The temple doors opened for devotees at 8 am, setting the stage for a day of deep devotion. The ceremonial opening of the holy Vaikuntha Dwara took place at 8:30 am. This sacred gateway, symbolising the path to the spiritual abode, was passed through by a multitude of faithful followers throughout the day.
A significant highlight was the continuous Laksharchana Seva performed for Garuda Seva Lakshmi Narayana. This powerful ritual, where the holy names of the Lord are chanted with devotion, ran from 10 am until 9 pm, creating an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy. The evening saw the performance of a sacred Venkateshwara homa, further amplifying the devotional ambience.
A Cultural Tribute to Divine Pastimes
The celebrations culminated with a series of exceptional cultural programmes that received an enthusiastic response from all attendees. The centrepiece was a captivating dance drama titled ‘Krishna Charitamrutham’.
This artistic presentation, choreographed by Vidushi Hema Waghmode with music composed by Vidwan Balasubramanya Sharma, beautifully depicted the divine pastimes of Lord Krishna through expressive movement and soulful music.
Classical Elegance and Musical Harmony
Adding to the cultural richness, Natyanjali Kalakendra presented a graceful Bharatanatyam dance performance. This classical art form infused the evening with elegance and profound devotional depth.
The cultural segment was further enhanced by a vibrant music jugalbandi, a duet performance that showcased a harmonious and captivating interaction between skilled classical musicians, leaving the audience mesmerised.
The successful celebration of Vaikuntha Ekadashi at ISKCON Hubli-Dharwad not only provided a profound spiritual experience but also highlighted the beautiful synergy between deep devotion and India's rich classical arts, strengthening the community's cultural and religious fabric.
