Maha Kumbh Mela - A Sacred Convergence
The Adiveda Weekly #131
Hari Aum Sadhakas,
The Kumbh Mela is one of the most iconic spiritual events in the world, drawing millions of devotees from across India and beyond. While the Purna Kumbh Mela occurs once every twelve years across four sacred locations, there is one rare occasion that stands above all: the Maha Kumbh Mela. This event, celebrated once in 144 years, takes place exclusively at Prayagraj, at the confluence of the sacred Ganga, Yamuna, and the underground river - Saraswati. In 2025, Prayagraj will once again host this extraordinary gathering, where spirituality, tradition, and scientific principles come together. In this blog, we’ll delve into the profound significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela, its spiritual and scientific aspects, and the awe-inspiring experience that awaits those fortunate enough to be a part of it.
-Adiveda Team
Newsletter Contents - This newsletter contains the following sections in given order:
1 - Weekly Blog , 2 - Question of the week, 3 - The Hindu way of Life,
4 - Reflection of the week, 5 - Mantra of the week, 6 - Important Dates of the week,
7 - Books by Vanamali Mataji, 8 - Satsang by Vanamali Mataji, 9 - Understanding with Mataji, 10 - Learning with Mataji,
11 - Astrology Tips, 12 - Ayurvedic Tips, 13 - Yogic Living,
14 - Learn Sanskrit, 15 - Prenatal Yoga and 16 - Contacts
Weekly Blog
Question Of The Week
Q - How many rivers are considered sacred in India, and why are they revered?
A - In Bharat several rivers are considered sacred, with the most prominent being the Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu (Indus), Godavari, Kaveri, Krishna, and Mahanadi. These rivers are revered in Hinduism and are believed to possess divine qualities. They are seen as purifiers, both physically and spiritually, with the belief that bathing in their waters can cleanse sins and promote spiritual liberation (moksha). Additionally, many of these rivers are associated with Puranic stories, legends, and deities, further elevating their sacred status in Sanatana culture and rituals.
Do send us your questions via the comment section or through live interaction with Vanamali Mataji on Instagram.
The Hindu Way of Life
The journey of a river merging into the ocean is a powerful metaphor for the Atman (individual soul) merging with the Paramatman (supreme soul) in Sanatana Dharma. Just as a river flows tirelessly towards the ocean, gradually dissolving its individual identity to unite with the vast, boundless waters, the Atman seeks liberation by merging with the Paramatman. This teaches that the ultimate purpose of life is to realize the oneness with the Divine, transcending ego and individuality. Like the river that becomes one with the ocean, the Atman, upon attaining spiritual enlightenment, reunites with the infinite consciousness, dissolving the boundaries of separateness and realizing its true nature.
Reflection of the Week
If one neglects or abandons their Dharma, it leads to a loss of balance, both within the individual and society. When people fail to uphold their principles, integrity, and responsibilities, chaos and disorder take root, and they may eventually lose their moral compass. Neglecting one's Dharma results in the erosion of one's values, and without a strong commitment to righteousness, one may fall into suffering or destruction.
Mantra of the Week
ॐ असतो मा सद्गमय। तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय । मृत्योर्मामृतं गमय ॥
Om Asato Maa Sad-Gamaya |
Tamaso Maa Jyotir-Gamaya |
Mrtyor-Maa Amrtam Gamaya |
From the unreal, lead us to the real. From darkness to light and from death to immortality.
Important dates this week
✓ Paush Putrada Ekadashi - Friday Jan 10, 2025
Books by Vanamali Mataji:
The Rishis
This book explores the lives and teachings of the revered sages or Rishis who have given us the incredible “Dharma” known as “Sanatana Dharma”. It further celebrates their diverse philosophies, offering readers a rich tapestry of wisdom that continues to inspire seekers today. Also available as audio book.
This book is available for purchase and can be delivered worldwide. If you are interested in purchasing copies of any of Vanamali’s books, please contact vanamali2@gmail.com.
Also available as audio book are Sri Rama Lila and Sri Hanuman Lila. Narrated by Vanamali Mataji, listen to them on Spotify or JioSaavn.
Vanamali Mataji in Satsang
In Her Bhagavad Gita Discourse, Vanamali Mataji shares beautiful insights from every chapter. She allows our minds to understand this ever relevant guidebook and thus helps us to navigate our own daily battles. The introduction video is available in full on YouTube and gives the background information of Shri Bhagwad Gita.
The entire Discourse, shared chapter by chapter, was professionally recorded and is made available on a donation basis. For those interested in receiving the recordings on a weekly basis, please contact vanamalibhagavadgita@gmail.com.
To follow along the Discourse, Vanamali Mataji recommends reading Vanamali’s “Srimad Bhagavad Gita”, as well as the commentary “Nitya Yoga”. If you would like to purchase a copy, please contact vanamali2@gmail.com. Books ship internationally.
Understanding with Vanamali Mataji
Vanamali Mataji has a series of talks on the Uddhava Gita . Lets uncover the secrets of Uddhava Gita which emphasizes the importance of detachment, devotion, and self-realization, guiding individuals on their spiritual journey towards enlightenment and ultimate union with the divine. These talks are available both on Instagram and Youtube.
Learning with Vanamali Mataji
During a Satsang, Vanamali Mataji explains the significance of name and form of God
Astrology Tip of the Week
In numerology, 2025 is a Universal Year 9, symbolizing completion, reflection, and healing. It’s a time to let go of the past, finish unfinished business, and focus on personal growth. Year 9 encourages compassion, service to humanity, and creative expression, while also preparing for new beginnings in the following cycle. It’s a year for closure, forgiveness, and transformation.
To receive your personal reading you can contact Amit on WhatsApp - (+91) 954-841-1670
Ayurvedic health tip of the week - Allergies, Nasal Congestion and Sinusitits
Oftentimes, chronic nasal congestion and sinusitis can be because of some allergy to something in your diet and environment. If you are able to test this and establish what is causing you allergies, then an elimination or avoidance for 4 weeks or more could be advisable. Supplements that can also help at this time are Vitamin C, probiotics, Vitamin A, and a daily xylitol nasal spray. Lastly, steam inhalation with 2 drops of oregano oil, closing mouth and inhaling 3x/day for 3-5 days in an acute flare, can be helpful.
Our trusted Naturopath is: Dr. Poorna Menon, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
Disclaimer: Please note this is not medical advice - please follow the advice of your practitioner before you make any changes that could impact your health.
Yogic Living
The "Sacred Breath: 10 Days of Traditional Breathwork" program, offered by Hub of Yoga, is a transformative journey that guides you through ancient breathwork practices to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Over the course of 10 days, you'll explore time-tested techniques that promote deep healing, inner peace, and vitality. Whether you're new to breathwork or looking to deepen your practice, this program offers a structured path to harness the power of breath for holistic transformation.
Golden Opportunity to learn Sanskrit
Sanskrit is one of the oldest living languages in the world. Studies done abroad show that children who learn Sanskrit are brighter and more intelligent and have better memories than other children. It is also known to be the best suited for Computers.
It gives us immense pleasure to introduce Atul Srirag who is Shiksha Shashtri and well qualified to teach the divine language of Sanskrit. He can be contacted at athulshriragkr@gmail.com
Joining prenatal yoga classes is a wonderful way to enhance physical well-being, reduce stress, and prepare the body for childbirth. These classes offer emotional support, improve flexibility, and promote relaxation, fostering a stronger mind-body connection during pregnancy. Contact for more details - (+91) 832-796-6554
How to connect with Mataji & Trusted Contacts
Instagram: VANAMALIKRISHNA
EVERY Sunday at 11am IST Mataji will host a live Q&A on Her Instagram page!
YouTube: Vanamali Mataji’s Youtube
To purchase Vanamali’s Books: vanamali2@gmail.com
For Adiveda Retreats & Classes: Adiveda Website | (+91) 816-991-5870
Learn Sanskrit from expert - Please contact Athul Shrirag - (+91) 906-165-3308 - athulshriragkr@gmail.com
For an authentic astrology reading with our Adiveda Vedic Astrologer Amit, please contact: (+91) 954-841-1670
At your service,
The Adiveda Team