Lighting the Inner Flame: Reflections from Arbuda Spandaḥ, the Shivir at Mount Abu
From the lap of the Arāvalī-s where morning mists meet midnight stars, unfolds a story of spiritual awakening - an article by Prakāsh Mañjeshwar mām
It fills my heart with immense joy and gratitude to share with you the unforgettable experience of our recent Arbuda Spandaḥ Shivir for senior citizens held at the sacred and serene Mount Ābū. This Shivir wasn’t just a gathering — it was a journey inward, a rejuvenation of the spirit, and a spark that lit the flame of transformation in all of us.
From the moment we arrived in the lap of the Arāvalī-s, embraced by the gentle winds and divine energy of Sant Sarovar at Mount Ābū, we knew we had come to a place where silence speaks, where souls awaken, and where hearts connect beyond words.
Morning Exercises & Prāṇāyāma: A Fresh Start
Each day began with morning exercises and prāṇāyāma, helping us shake off our lethargy and start afresh. The early hours were filled with the chirping of birds, the crisp mountain air, and guided movements that awakened both our bodies and our minds. The prāṇāyāma sessions helped us center ourselves — balancing breath, boosting energy, and preparing us for the day’s inner and outer activities. It was the perfect way to align body, breath, and mind right from the start.
Nināda: The Eternal Sound
During the session, participants practised Nināda, a unique breathing technique that integrates diaphragmatic breathing with vocal sound activation, encouraging both physical grounding and subtle inner awareness.
Swādhyāya - Shrī Subrahmaṇya Bhujaṅga Stotram
H.H. Swāmījī conducted a profound Swādhyāya on the Shrī Subrahmaṇya Bhujaṅga Stotram, composed by Ādi Shaṅkarāchārya, beautifully unfolding the essence of each verse. He offered special appreciation for Verse 18, highlighting its unique portrayal of a divine family - a tender moment between Lord Shiva, Devī Pārvatī, and Kumāra - the young Kārtikeya; the human aspect of the divine family, rarely seen in other stotra-s.
Vimarsha
“Avalambana”: The Essence of Support
The Vimarsha session during the Shivir on the subject Avalambana was an exploration of this word which means support. Participants engaged in deep discussions on topics such as dependence versus self-reliance, significance of inner strength, the role of external guidance, and the delicate balance between seeking help and fostering independence. Through insightful reflections and shared experiences, the session illuminated the essence of Avalambana, inspiring individuals to cultivate resilience while embracing the support systems around them. It was a meaningful exchange of wisdom and perspective, leaving everyone with valuable take-aways for personal growth. The most eye-opening take-away for me personally, was the realisation that every spiritual seeker is a warrior, and our battlefield lies within.
Abhivyakti: Letting the Inner Voice Speak
Our Abhivyakti sessions were a celebration of inner expression. Through storytelling, drama, poetry, music, and spontaneous sharing, we were given the space to voice our thoughts, share our realizations, and express our inner journey. These moments were full of laughter, learning, emotion, and connection. Every participant, regardless of age or background, found his/her voice — and that voice was heard and honored. It was during these sessions that we realized how important it is to not just learn, but also to express and integrate what we learn. A touching milestone where all participants tried to speak at least a few sentences in our Devabhās͟hā Sanskrit at the gentle prodding of our Guru.
During the Abhivyakti session, I performed well, but later that night, when Swāmījī asked me to speak after my wife Suman had expressed her thoughts, I froze and went completely blank. Swāmījī kindly supported me and helped complete my sentence.
Lesson Learnt: After doing well in the Abhivyakti session, I found myself feeling proud and caught in the grip of ego. That very night, the ever-compassionate and divinely intuitive Swāmījī immediately recognized this subtle ego and gently yet firmly corrected it—nipping it in the bud and guiding me back to ground level. Truly, this is the mahimā of the Guru—boundless, selfless, and ever watchful. Guru Mahimā... Apāra Mahimā... Guru Mahimā!
Sanskrit Sambhās͟͟haṇam: The Power of Words
One of the engaging components of the Shivir was the Sanskrit Sambhās͟͟haṇam (spoken Sanskrit) sessions, where we explored the language as learners with joy and simplicity. We were introduced to the foundational elements of conversational Sanskrit, making the ancient language approachable and relevant.
A central part of this journey was learning the Sapta Kakāra-s — the seven key interrogative words in Sanskrit, all starting with the letter "ka". The Devī Kavacham was taken as the base for us to form simple questions in Sanskrit using the Sapta Kakāra-s and also answer questions in order to be alert to the meaning of the shloka-s while chanting …. It was a novel and extremely interesting exercise and in fact sādhaka-s suggested that similar exercises be taken up in further sessions!
Shiva Pūjana by H.H. Swāmījī : A Divine Invocation
A divine and spiritually uplifting Shiva Pūjana was performed by H.H. Swāmījī for the first time in the Somanāth Mahādev Temple at Sant Sarovar drawing the heartfelt attention of many devotees and visitors.
Numerous local sādhaka-s actively participated in the ceremony, joining in the chanting and prayers with devotion. Alongside them, many visitors to the temple stood and observed the pūjā with great eagerness and respect, drawn by the sanctity and energy of the event.
Following the pūjā, H.H. Swāmījī delivered a Pravachana (spiritual discourse) filled with wisdom, guiding devotees on the path of devotion, dharma, and inner transformation. The pravachana deeply touched the hearts of all present, leaving a lasting spiritual impression.
The entire occasion was marked by an atmosphere of bhakti (devotion), shānti (peace), and divine grace, creating a memorable experience for all the attendees.
Adventure in the Arāvalī: Trekking, Rock Climbing & The Mystique of Bhīma Shilā
Trekking through the Arāvalī forest can be an exhilarating experience, exposing one to breathtaking landscapes, rugged trails, and the serenity of untouched nature. Climbing mountain rocks present a thrilling challenge, testing endurance, while rewarding adventurers with stunning panoramic views. The trek to Bhīma Shilā, a fascinating rock formation steeped in legend, added a mystical element to the experience.
Guiding the way with skill and expertise, our guide Subhāshjī played a crucial role in navigating the terrain, ensuring safety, and sharing invaluable knowledge about the region. His experience in mountaineering and deep understanding of the Arāvalī mountain range made the adventure smoother and more insightful. Under his guidance, every ascent and descent became a learning experience, making this expedition both thrilling and enriching.
Excellent Food Arrangements: Nourishment With Love
A big heartfelt thank you must be given to the kitchen team, whose efforts ensured that every meal was delicious, nutritious, and served with love. The arrangements were smooth and the meals elaborate and satisfying - perfectly blending the practical along with the spiritual journey. The smiles of the volunteers serving us, the punctuality, the cleanliness - everything was remarkable. We truly experienced what it means when food is not just for the body but also for the soul.
The chanting of sacred shloka-s during the Prasāda Bhojana was truly enchanting and filled the atmosphere with divine bliss. Though I was initially a bit nervous, I too joined in, and soon found myself immersed in the uplifting vibrations of devotion and unity.
Night Meditation: A Deep Dive Within
And then came the most profound part of our day - the meditation sessions at night. After a full day of learning, reflecting, sharing, and serving - we ended each night in silence, seated in stillness, returning to ourselves. Under the starry skies of Mount Ābū, with a cool breeze and the gentle Guidance of our H.H. Swāmījī, we entered the still space within. The world outside faded away, and we met the world inside - a world of peace, light, and clarity. This night-time meditation helped us release the noise of the day, settle our emotions, and sleep in awareness. It became the most awaited part of the day - not because it was the end, but because it was the beginning of a deeper inner connection.
Other Treasures from the Shivir
There were countless other moments that made this Shivir unforgettable:
• The Pravachana-s that brought wisdom from the scriptures to life in a modern context.
• The nature walks, where we practiced silence and felt one with the trees, rocks, and breeze.
• The personal reflections, where we were encouraged to sit with ourselves and observe our thoughts without judgment.
• And above all, the Blessing and Guidance of our Swāmījī, our Spiritual Mentor, whose Presence gave us strength and clarity throughout.
Carryng the Flame Forward
The Shivir at Mount Ābū was not just a destination - it was a starting point. This Shivir planted the seed of inner transformation in all of us. It reminded us of who we are, what we can become, and how we can live with greater peace, purpose, and presence. As we return to our daily lives, let us not leave behind what we found there. Let us continue our prāṇāyāma, continue our night meditations, practice Vimarsha, express through Abhivyakti, keep fit to serve through treks, and live each day with the spirit of the Shivir — awake, aware, and anchored in our values.
With utmost reverence and gratitude, I humbly offer my heartfelt salutations to our Beloved Swāmījī, our Guiding Light. I also extend deep respect and sincere thanks to the dedicated organisers and each and every sañchālaka/sañchālikā, and to all the people at Saṁvit Sādhanāyana, whose selfless service made this divine Shivir a memorable one.
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