Florida News
SPIRITUAL MASTER SANT RAJINDER SINGH JI MAHARAJ TO SPEAK DEC. 9-10 IN ORLANDO AREA
Spiritual master Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj will be in Orlando next month to offer talks on how meditation can help you live a peaceful and fulfilling life. On Saturday, Dec. 9, he will speak on “Detox your Mind.” Next day, his topic will be “Meditation for Peace and Happiness,” followed by initiation (in-depth instructions for meditation on the inner Light and Sound). Both events are at 2:30 p.m. at the Sheraton Orlando North Hotel – 600 N. Lake Destiny Road, Maitland – at Interstate 4 and Maitland Boulevard (exit 90)
Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj teaches a simple meditation technique anyone can practice. Recognized internationally for his work towards promoting inner and outer peace through spirituality, he travels globally conducting meditation seminars and giving talks on inner enlightenment.
He is the author of numerous books on spirituality and meditation, many of which have been translated into over fifty languages. His recent book “Meditation as Medication for the Soul” is a compilation of chapters from experts in multiple medical disciplines. The meditation practice he teaches on the inner Light and Sound can be practiced by people of all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life.
For information about Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj’s visit to Orlando, email Doug Kruger at [email protected] or visit: www.sos.org
Diwali Celebrated at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir IN Tampa
A young baby marvels at the spectacular wonderment of twinkling lights and extravagant decorations arranged in the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir’s main chamber and throughout the greater Mandir campus. New parents tied to the Hindu diaspora, seeking to preserve and pass on heritage and religious teachings to their children in the United States, find a place of learning and cultural preservation at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir’s annual Diwali celebrations in Tampa.
For many visitors, the most popular attraction and a highlight of the festivities is the Annakut festival on the fifth day. As practiced by BAPS Swaminarayan Mandirs, the Annakut is a unique and awe-inspiring sight of devotion where hundreds of different traditional Indian foods and even some fusions with Western cuisine are prepared by devotees in the community and arranged in front of sacred images. In the evening, the offered dishes are served at dinner to everyone. This year, more than 500 unique items were prepared and displayed in the Annakut.
In addition to the Annakut, the BAPS’ Diwali celebrations featured spiritual and cultural themed events, which engaged both children and adults, to bring positive energy into the New Year. Furthermore, visitors and members learned about scriptural events related to Diwali, and observed traditions such as rangolis and other traditional forms of decorations. Finally, all children participated in a children’s fair and kids Diwali celebration, which included food, games and fun activities. Attractions included many different inflatables, and ended with a fireworks display.
Amit Dalsania said, “Diwali is my favorite festival because of the excitement that fills the air when the festival nears. After coming to the Diwali Celebrations at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, I felt like I was in India. I experienced Indian culture while getting a taste of fine Indian cuisine. I truly felt at home.”
For more information, visit www.baps.org
ARANGETRAM HELD IN ORLANDO
A Bharatanatyam Arangetram of Micaela Joseph was held on Sept. 9 at Olympia High School Auditorium in Orlando. Micaela is a student of Bharatnatyam at Natyatharu Performing Arts of Orlando under the guidance of Daveena Langton.
An Arangetram classical dance recital signifies the graduation of the dancer following several years of rigorous curriculum. Through this journey, the dance student learns about Indian history, mythology, religion, customs and culture.
Micaela, daughter of Oji Joseph and Susanna Joseph, is a freshman at Windermere Preparatory School.