04/11/2025
*A Life-Changing Vedanta Retreat in Chinmaya Tapovan Sidhbari!*
_Camp on the Chandogya Upanishad Ch7 with Swami Abhedanada, organised by Chinmaya Mission Jaipur_
From 25th to 31st October 2025, seekers from various parts of Bharat, USA, Singapore & the Middle East came together to experience Divine grace and ancient wisdom, in the lap of Pujya Gurudev, at Chinmaya Tapovan Ashram, Sidhbari.
Swami Abhedananda (Chinmaya Mission South Africa) uplifted listeners at the camp in a manner like never before, imparting transformative lessons from the cryptic mantras of the Upanishad. Expounding in both depth & expanse, Swamiji conveyed the true meanings of the 15 upāsanās outlined in the text. With much effort, Swamiji redefined devotees' understanding of worship from mere 'sit-chant-and-forget' practices, to an 'ever-lasting acceptance of everything, continuous appreciation of God, and propitiation of Divinity in all endeavours'. The tattva or true essence of the soul was revealed to sadhakas through adhyāropa-apavāda (superimposition and de-superimposition). Cross-referencing countless other Vedantic texts, bringing out gems from the Shankara-bhāshya, and relating Vedantic lessons to everyday situations, Swamiji truly taught campers what it means to live, love, laugh, learn, and REALIZE the bliss immanent in oneself, that is Bhūmā-vidyā.
Seekers got the blessed opportunity to revel in the tranquility of Sidhbari and experience the unmistakable presence of Pujya Gurudev in the Ashram. Enjoying everyday sunsets lighting up the peaks of the Dhauladhar mountains and having divine darshans of Shri Veer Hanuman and the Rama Darbar, with Sattvic meals and quality accomodation, devotees had a joyful time at the camp.
Swamiji was also invited to the CORD Campus to address volunteers of the Mahila Mandal team, where he filled attendees' hearts with joy & devoted dynamism. Sharing touching moments with Dr. Kshama Metre of CORD, Swamiji extended his appreciation for her revolutionary efforts. Swamiji also took an insightful session for students of the ongoing Hindi Vedanta Course, conducted by Swami Prakarshananda. Empowering students with happiness, energy and commitment, Swamiji outlined to them the key steps of sadhana and preparation for devoting themselves to the Mission and Pujya Gurudev.
As the camp concluded, seekers returned home with deep fulfilment, immense gratitude, and a yearning for the next such soul-stirring experience of Vedantic discovery. In his enlightening style, Swamiji gave them the gift of true Vedantic learning – not merely instructive, but inspirational, intuitive, implementable, and enjoyable!
Campers expressed gratitude to Chinmaya Mission Jaipur for the divine camp. Manoj Khurana (Secy., CM Jaipur) thanked Ms. Mona Malkani (COO, Chinmaya Tapovan Trust) & her dedicated team, for their wonderful efforts toward making this a memorable experience. Hari Om!