Chinmaya Community Celebrates 16 Years of Rameshwaram

As Chinmaya Mission LA observed a week-long (January 12-18, 2026) Chinmaya Amrit Yatra, all were warmly invited on January 17 to participate in the 16th Anniversary celebrations of Chinmaya Rameshwaram - a joyful occasion marking the sixteen years of spiritual learning, devotion, and community service. The day’s program was thoughtfully planned to offer devotees an enriching blend of Vedic rituals and devotional music, all set in an atmosphere graced by the divine blessings of Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda.

The celebrations began with Sudarshana Homam and Rama Beeja Homam at 8:00 am, performed by Pandit Subramaniam and others well versed in Vedic chanting, with the solemn recitation of the sankalpam, invoking auspiciousness and well-being for all. A Vada Māla (garland of vadas) was offered to Lord Hanuman by devotees in a spirit of reverence and devotion. Next the Hanuman Chalisa Havan was performed. A dedicated team of Vanara Vīras chanted the Hanuman Chalisa, with all devotees joyfully encouraged to sing along. Swami Ishwarananda then offered Rudraksha to many devotees and urged everyone to make a sankalpa and chant the Hanuman Chalisa at least once daily until September 5, 2026.

At 10:00 am, volunteers, coordinators, teachers, and attendees took a brief pause to enjoy Mahā Prasādam and breakfast together.

By 10:30 am, devotees had gathered in the main hall at Rameshwaram to witness the Guru Paduka Puja, It was delightful to see many lining up holding lamps in their palms to welcome Gurudev’s Chariot.  As Gurudev’s Chariot entered the hall, Brahmacharini Sandhyaji, with utmost devotion, chanted the Guru Mantram—Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheshwara. Swami Ishwarananda then recited a beautiful śloka from the Guru Gītā,  creating an atmosphere of deep reverence and calm

ॐ ब्रह्मानन्दं परमसुखदं केवलं ज्ञानमूर्तिं
द्वन्द्वातीतं गगनसदृशं तत्त्वमस्यादिलक्ष्यम् ।
एकं नित्यं विमलमचलं सर्वधीसाक्षिभूतं
भावातీతं त्रिगुणरहितं सद्गुरुं तं नमामि ॥

The sight of Gurudev’s portrait full of life, brought a profound sense of peace. The Guru Paduka Puja began with the chanting of Omkaram three times. The puja was performed with utmost devotion and sincerity. During the puja, devotees repeatedly offered the chant “Om Chinmaya Sadgurave Namaha.”.  It was heavenly when Swami Ishwarananda chanted the Śrī Chinmaya Aṣhṭottara Śata Nāmāvaliḥ, a hymn of 108 glorious names of SwaCmi Chinmayananda. The concluding name—“Om nitya-śuddha-buddha-mukta-svarūpāya namaḥ”—is especially poignant.

It describes the ever-pure, fully awakened and liberated nature of the Self, which Gurudev tirelessly taught through his life and works. 

Later the Swaranjali team, the music group of CMLA, offered soulful bhajans. This was followed by chanting of Sanskrit hymns from the Chinmaya Book of Hymns by the Slokanjali group.

Both The Shruti (choir) and Junior Shruti teams delivered an excellent musical performance, filling the space with devotion and joy. The Shruti team introduced new instruments—violin and flute—which added a beautiful new dimension to their presentation. The morning program was concluded with Mangalaarati at 12:30 pm, followed by Mahaprasadam, offering an opportunity for fellowship and shared gratitude.

Throughout the day, Swami Ishwarananda attentively oversaw each event, guiding the various teams with care and precision. In a moment of affectionate encouragement, he lovingly referred to the volunteers closely working with him as “Vanara Vīras,” celebrating their enthusiasm, dedication, and selfless service. In closing, Swamiji invited everyone to become members of the Vanara Sainya and lend their support to the Vanara Vīras.

This anniversary celebration is a heartfelt expression of thankfulness honoring the guru parampara and the collective dedication of the Chinmaya Rameshwaram community. 

-- Madhuri Immaneni