It is a quiet day at the Aadheenam.

Saravananathaswami gave his report from the Ekadanta Kulam. He continues to work with the logistics and promotion of Bodhinatha’s seminars later this year in Malaysia, Singapore and California. He also greeted and helped a new Task Forcer, Kamil, get oriented. He has also arranged for a professional security, and parking attendant to come on tour days to handle the cars and parking issues arising from so many guests. And, as he does every year, he is working the Guru Purnima 2007 rededication forms, which will be soon sent out to all the sishya around the world.

Sadhaka Dandapani continues to work on preparations for the next Innersearch and is our tour day host.

The beauty of the Aadheenam gardens includes a cactus wonderland replete with a small mountain stream meandering through.

Lord Palani surrounded by sacred Hawaiian Ti plants.

Colorful Bromeliads interwoven with Japanese bamboo.

Shobhna, her sister Surekha, and their parents Prema and Dharup Pahalad and son Sanjay Pahalad.
Shobhna was previously here with her mother in May 2006.

The family is from Vancouver, BC and Prema stated she felt it was important to be present at all three locations when Bodhinatha visited Canada. “Being in the Guru’s presence is good for the soul and is extremely enlightening” Prema reminisced. “We are so blessed!”

Leah’s regular floral offerings on Tour Day are always welcoming for the guests. This one today included torch ginger, haliconias, red ginger, spruce and a bromeliad center. Mahalo Leah.

Click this link to view and zoom in on an aerial photo of Iraivan.

On Saturday May 5 the Himalayan Academy Committee of the Spiritual Park organised a one day seminar at Gold Crest Conference Hall, at Quatre Bornes, a residential town in Mauritius on the theme “What is Hinduism?” for new seekers.

A beautiful poster at the entrance explaining the subjects of the seminar to be conducted by Paramacharya Palaniswami, Editor of HINDUISM TODAY.

The event started with an arati to Lord Ganesha by Yogi Jivanandanatha …..

…. followed by another arati to our Gurus…

Paramacharya Palaniswami welcomed every participant and and shared a few of his spiritual experiences which inspired everyone. The topics covered concepts related to Hindu practices, beliefs and attitudes. Participants also asked several questions and answers provided shed more light on those subjects.

The topics taught were enhanced by beautiful keynote presentations from Paramacharya Palaniswami’s computer….. old-age truths in 21st century hi tech presentations…

Some 85 participants signed up for this seminar. For everyone it was a memorable spiritual experience to learn so many spiritual things from a swami.

Most of the participants are already studying with Satguru Bodhinatha through the correspondence Master Course. Others are new comers who have happily signed up to learn more about their religion.

Paramacharya Palaniswami introducing the new book “What is Hinduism?”

Participants listened attentively while Paramacharya Palaniswami gave an overview of the contents of the book.

The keynote presentation was mainly on “Ten Questions people asked about Hinduism.” from this new book.
To the question: Why does Hinduism have so many Gods? participants had this answer:
“Hindus all believe in one Supreme God who created the universe. He is all-pervasive. He created many Gods, highly advanced spiritual beings, to be his helpers.”

Another question: Why do Hindus worship the cow?

” Hindus don’t worship cows. We respect, honor and adore the cow. By honoring this gentle animal, who gives more than she takes, we honor all creatures.”

Kulamata Premila Manick, playing the vina accompanied by her 13 year old son on the mrdangam just before the break…

A varied buffet lunch was served…

Participants came forward to serve themselves…

Three participants attending the a Himalayan Academy seminar for the first time.

The Seminar was over by 3.30 PM. Paramacharya Palaniswami had a meeting with a few students who are more advanced in their Master Course study. Paramacharya Palaniswami stressed on consistency on spiritual study and discipline. More photos of the event in next TAKA….