ISKCON Ekachakra (left); the Goshala at ISKCON Ekachakra (right).
From December 21 to 25, 2024, a Holy Name Retreat was held at Ekachakra, the birthplace of Lord Nityananda, organized by Devaki Devi Dasi and assisted by Dhara Devi Dasi. The event brought together participants from various parts of the world, including India, Russia, Ukraine, Germany, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and the UK.
The retreat offered an immersive experience focused on chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra. The primary aim was to help participants chant while feelingly calling out to the Lord, remembering that there is no difference between the Lord and His Name. The serene and spiritually vibrant atmosphere of Ekachakra provided the perfect impetus for this transformative journey, fostering a deep connection to the Holy Name and a sense of unity among devotees from diverse backgrounds.
The event began with prayers and offerings to Lord Nityananda, invoking his mercy and blessings. Upon arrival, the attendees went on a parikrama around Ekachakra, visiting places connected to Lord Nityananda’s pastimes, including Bakula Tala, Panadava Tala, and Hantugada Tirtha. The parikrama helped participants attune themselves to the mood of the retreat, which was inaugurated the same evening with kirtan led by Dhara Devi Dasi and an introduction address by Devaki Devi Dasi.
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