By Bhakta Bharath
The annual Brahmotsava of Their Lordships Sri Sri Gandharvika Giridhari and Sri Sri Lakshmi Narasimha of Iskcon Bangalore, took off to a colorful start with the Dvaja-arohana (hoisting of the Garuda flag) on Saturday, May 10, 2014. As the festivities and formalities unfolded in the temple, thousands were drawn to the whirl of color and sound emanating from the temple halls of Sri Sri Gandharvika Giridhari and Sri Sri Lakshmi Narasimha.
An elaborate abhisheka was performed to Lord Sri Narasimha-deva with various sacred items. His Holiness Bhanu Swami Maharaja addressed the devotees about the significance of deity worship. As the sun withdrew its powerful brilliance, the utsava deities of Sri Sri Gandharvika Giridhari were adorned in special alankara and taken in a procession around the temple. The Lord mounted on the gorgeously decorated chariot and went for a pleasure ride along with His eternal consort and other devotees just like a king would in his chariot along with his entourage. The procession was accompanied by captivating sankirtana. Overcome by the sight of the Lord, the devotees fell to their knees and offered repeated obeisances. There was a firework display as Their Lordships returned to Their abode.
The second day of Brahmotsava began with a wonderful arati to His Divine Grace Srila Prabhupada followed by the morning program. Their Lordships were adorned in new outfits, colorful flowers and brilliant jewellery. All the devotees were engaged in arranging flower petals for the pushpa-abhisheka for Their Lordships. His Holiness Bhanu Swami Maharaja inaugurated a grand new asana for Srila Prabhupada and proceeded to give a wonderful class on the role of deities in our lives. Everyone were eagerly waiting to shower their love in the form of flowers to Their Lordships. There was a grand Festival of Kirtanas led by His Grace Haripada Prabhu, His Grace Shravananda Prabhu and other kirtaniyas. As the kirtana reached a crescendo the devotees danced wildly in ecstasy. The Lord, with His consort, appeared brilliant, bestowing a gentle smile on His beloved devotees. Mahaprasada was served to all the devotees.
The festival will conclude today with elaborate festivities on the occasion of Sri Narasimha Jayanti in the auspicious presence of His Holiness Bhakti Rasamrita Maharaja.
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Your servant,
Bhakta Bharath
ISKCON Sri Narasimha Giridhari Mandir
1st Block, HBR Layout, Kacharakanahalli Main Road, Bangalore, Karnataka 560043 +91 98867 09603 | sggm.hr@gmail.com
