A Temple of…
Once, while visiting Gurudev Siddha Peeth during the time of Navaratri celebrations, I joined other young women to dance before the magnificent Devi statue in the gardens. In the deep darkness of the night, there were lighted lamps all around, giving off a golden, alluring glow.
I joined the dancing steps and started getting into the flow. We tapped our sticks to the beat of the music, we swirled, and we became one movement in unison. Flowing and flowing, we moved faster and faster, our feet jingling with the bells on our ankles. It felt like we had entered a timeless, ancient realm.
Gratitude and awe filled me. I looked up, and I felt as though the Devi’s glance was literally upon me, fully alive and laughing. As I twirled and twirled, her presence became larger and brighter. Her green and gold sari began to move in the breeze, and I knew with certainty that she was very pleased to be dancing with us and within us.
New York, United States
As soon as I read “A Temple of Devotional Dance,” I smiled. I immediately felt playful and remembered how much I love the joy of movement. The smile, too, felt like a reminder that while the changes in the world appear to be intense, I can be playful and express my love and devotion lightheartedly. I can offer my gratitude for my life and my eternal relationship with the Guru through devotional dance. I am going to try it!
New York, United States