Anniversary Celebration at the Adiyogi Retreat
Nilgiris
Number 9 holds significant importance in various cultures and belief systems, which makes it a fitting choice for our 9th-anniversary celebration on 6th Feb 2024. Here are a few reasons why the number 9 is considered special:
Spiritual significance: In many religious and spiritual traditions, the number 9 is seen as a symbol of completion or ending.
Numerology: In numerology, the number 9 is considered a master number, representing wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, and humanitarianism.
Biblical references: In the Bible, the number 9 appears several times, such as the nine fruits on the golden candlestick and the nine lepers healed by Jesus.
Astrology: In astrology, the ninth house is associated with travel, exploration, and higher knowledge.
Chinese culture: In Chinese culture, the number 9 is considered lucky because it sounds similar to the word for "long-lasting" or "eternal."
Opting for a pilgrimage to a site dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, I embarked on an 8-hour drive from Chennai to our chosen destination, Coimbatore. Here, the Adiyogi sculpture proudly graces the sacred Velliangiri hill, also known as Bhulok Kailash or Dakshin Kailash. According to legend, this hallowed location is where Shiva, responding to the request of his consort Umadevi, performed his cosmic dance.
The initial view of the monumental Adiyogi sculpture emanates an incredibly positive ambience. Following this, we made our way to the yoga centre. The key highlights in the yoga centre include the Dhyanalinga, Linga Bhairavi temple, Suryakund, and Chandrakund. To reach the yoga centre from the Adiyogi Shiva statue, a traditional bullock ride is available (my son enjoyed this). Upon arrival, we were recommended to undergo Snañ (ritual bath) in the Theerthakunds before visiting the Dhyanalinga. Visitors have the option to immerse themselves in either of the two revitalized water bodies, energized by rasalingas consecrated by Sadhguru. The Chandrakund, designed for women, exudes slightly feminine energy, while the Suryakund, intended for men, reflects a more masculine essence. I vividly recall the unique things in the Suryakund, where a Sadhu sitting there played a distinctive whistle that elevated my overall experience.
After immersing yourself in the energized waters, your next destination is the Linga Bhairavi temple. Revered as a raw, powerful, earthy, humane, and mother-like deity, Linga Bhairavi embodies the essence of both fierceness and compassion. While waiting in line to seek blessings from the Devi, continuous playing of the Linga Bhairavi Stuthi creates an atmosphere filled with positive vibrations and profound silence. Reserving the most captivating experience for the end, proceed to the Dhyanalinga. As you approach the elliptical dome (to experience better Rotunda effect), a profound silence envelops the surroundings. Amid this stillness, the gentle chirping of birds becomes audible. In case of a crowded environment, a sanyasi may guide you with a board, instructing you to find a seat, close your eyes, and engage in meditation for a few minutes. Upon the resonating sound of a bell after the designated time, you'll observe individuals who arrived before exiting the Dhyanalinga. You can then enter and select an available spot for your meditation.
Subsequently, we visited the store and purchased sandals and souvenirs for our friends. Racing against time, we were eager to catch the renowned Adiyogi Light Show scheduled daily at 7:00 PM. You can find the video along with its transcription by following this link.
The transcript says “Over 15,000 years ago, a mysterious being appeared in the upper regions of the Himalayas, his origins shrouded in mystery. Dancing wildly in moments of ecstasy and achieving profound stillness, he transcended physical form, becoming the first yogi, the Adi Yogi. His teachings, encompassing various methods of attainment, attracted seekers who remained devoted to him. The Adi Yogi's union with Devi Parvati symbolized the ideal balance of masculine and feminine energies. As he shared the sacred signs of yoga, the sages disseminated them globally, fostering civilizations. This extraordinary being represents the future of humanity, guiding us from illusions to the boundless ecstasies within our being”.
