On the first of Jan 2024, amidst the vibrant energy and palpable anticipation, the 18th Kalpataru mass prayer unfolded at the ‘Thapo Bhoomi’, Kanyakumari by the grace of our Guru Maharaj, HH Maharanyam Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji and Madhuri Sakhi Samedha Sri Premika Varadhan, leaving an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to partake in its multifaceted experience. It was organised in the expansive grounds of the venerable Vivekananda Kendra. The arrangements had to facilitate a whopping crowd of about ten thousand devotees from all over the globe, and so it did. The event was scheduled to start at 5 pm but devotees could be seen thronging the precincts of the venue from 2:30 pm to seat themselves in the initial rows and experience the splendour to the fullest. As they entered the precincts, they were given a small bag which had the prasad for the day.
As the devotees settled themselves for the divine rendezvous, every eye was eager to get a glimpse of the Master. The seating was meticulously planned with broad aisles that facilitated seamless navigation through the rows. At every aisle volunteers stood to help the devotees get themselves seated comfortably.
Ten minutes before the clock struck five, the devotees sensed some fervour near the stage and spotted some running legs. They knew at once that this marks the arrival of the one, whose darshan they were yearning for all this while. Sri Swamiji decided to sit down next to the stage on his chair and grace his devotees with his darshan. At once the occasion unfolded with a captivating and divine light music session that set the tone for the memorable evening. As the inaugural segment of the event gracefully concluded, seamlessly paving the way for the ensuing phase, Sri Swamiji enchantingly strolled around the stage to quench the thirst for darshan, of his devotees sitting on both sides of the massive ramp. Then Sri Swamiji ascended to the stage for his much-awaited address and mass chanting. Sri Swamiji honoured and blessed the musicians for their soulful rendition. The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Bhagyanathan, personal secretary to Sri Swamiji. As a mark of gratitude for not only giving space physically for this massive event, but also in their hearts, Sri Swamiji honoured the distinguished authorities of Vivekananda Kendra, himself. Soon after the welcome speech and amidst thousands of eager ears and eyes, the much awaited ‘Anugraha Bhashanam’ of Sri Swamiji commenced. Sri Swamiji started the discourse by stating that Kanyakumari is known for its Triveni Sangamam where the three massive waterbodies meet.
But Kanyakumari had witnessed that day, the meeting of one more ocean making it four, the ocean of bhaktas who had assembled there. He addressed the devotees as Ratnas, Pearls and great souls who chant Nama.
Towards the end of his mesmerizing and enchanting discourse, Sri Swamiji commenced the most awaited part of the event. He asked the devotees to pray for their wishes for 10 minutes and assured that he himself will accompany them in their prayers. For 10 minutes the massive venue was encapsulated by silent prayers. As the time ordained ended, fervent, zealous, and devoted chanting of the Mahamantra led by Sri Swamiji engulfed the whole arena and reverberated till the horizon. Sri Swamiji beaming with joy walked through out the massive ramp and blessed each and everyone. He showed his ‘Abhaya Hastam’ the absolute assurance that he will take care, to all the eyes fixed on him. The fervour and zeal grew for every Nama, and as the clock was about to strike 30 minutes past eight, the curtains were brought down on the Kalpatharu day.
The Kalpatharu day is a commemoration of the day on which Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa declared that he will grant all the wishes that his devotees ask him. It is this day that Sri Swamiji chose to give us what he has come to give. This day reiterates his message that we should ask our wishes and offer prayers only to God and chant his name, which is the only beacon of hope in Kali Yuga. The devotees left with a tranquil mind, blissfully resonating his assurance and blessings. Fortunate and blessed were those who participated in this divine event.
Aho Bhagyam!!
K. Sai Charan
