By Chaitanya Arya
On November 24, 2024, the Hare Krishna Tribal Care Center from Kukarmunda organized a spiritual pilgrimage to Shabari Dham, a sacred site in the Dang district of Gujarat. The trip, led by Nitaipad Das and Markatshyam Das, included 60 tribal devotees. The devotees took part in various religious activities such as offering aarti to Lord Ram and Mother Shabari, performing Nritya Sankirtan (holy name dance), and distributing prasadam (offered meal) to about 200 local tribals.
The Significance of Shabari Dham
Shabari Dham holds a special place in Hindu tradition. Located near Subir village, about 33 kilometers from Ahwa and 60 kilometers from Saputara, it is surrounded by the beautiful forests of Dang. According to legends, it was in these forests, called Dandakaranya, that Lord Ram, Lakshman, and Sita passed through during their 14-year exile.
Shabari Dham is also believed to be the site where Shabari, an elderly devotee of Lord Ram, met him and offered him plums after tasting them first to ensure their sweetness. This story from the Ramayana is remembered for its message of devotion and humility. Today, a small temple sits on a hill in the area, surrounded by plum trees. It is dedicated to this touching episode from the epic. The temple also features paintings and imagery related to Lord Ram’s visit and Shabari’s devotion.
The devotees, recognizing the sacredness of the site, took this opportunity to celebrate and deepen their spiritual connection through prayers, song, and service to others.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/hare-krishna-tribal-care-center-kukarmunda-organizes-devotional-trip-to-shabari-dham/
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