The last couple of months have been hectic and the lack of any articles on the blog bears testimony to the same. However, the time has been highly productive in other ways. Bhagvad Kripa se a long awaited manorath was finally realized and one more is well underway towards fruition.

A couple of years ago, Bhagvad ichha se, we commenced construction of two nutan (new) Havelis over here in Bhavnagar. The goal was to create edifices that in addition to function even in form truly represented a ‘Nandalaya’.

‘Nandalaya’ (Nanda + Alaya) as the word suggests is the Alaya (abode) of Shri Nandraiji and Shri Yashoda Maiya, the residence of a Vallabhkul, where Shri Thakurji is so lovingly offered seva; which is the underlying bhav behind each and every Pushtimarg Vaishnav Haveli. …Read the full article »

Upanayan, Yagyopavit ceremony is one of the 16 sanskars starting from Garbhadhan to Vivaah according to the Hindu Sanatan Dharma. As Pushtimarg follows the Vedic tradition, even in modern times, the family of Shri Vallabhacharya -Vallabhkul is commited to preserving these holy customs.

Upanayan literally means to ‘take near’. The ceremony by which the disciple is taken to the Guru or Acharya through whom he shall be initiated by the Gayatri mantra and then receive direction to proceed on the path of acquiring knowledge is called Upanayan or the ‘sacred thread ceremony’.

This along with the ‘Vidya-arambha’ mark the beginning of receiving the sanskars related to education. This would be the simple understanding. The full explanation would exceed the scope of this article.

Chudakarna (Tonsure) for a long life, Diksha (Initiation) by the Gayatri Mantra, presenting the  Mekhala (girdle) symbolic of self control, Janoi (sacred thread) to remember ones duties, Danda (staff) symbolic of protecting the tradition, Bhiksha (asking for alms) to inculcate humility are some of the important rituals observed during the ceremony.

It is a joyous event for the family as it marks the first stage of the transition of the youth towards accepting duties. In the tradition of Shri Raghunathji’s Pancham Ghar, the Brahmasambandha and Seva of Shri Gokulchandramaji are only allowed after this sanskar has been observed.

In Pushtimarg in addition to the family, the joy spreads to the vaishnavs as it marks an important step taken by the Vallabhkul Balak towards acceptance of future responsibilities as a Guru. …Read the full article »