On Friday, June 3, Swami Prakash Ananda was graciously welcomed into Canada by the Devi Mandir, commemorating his first appearance out of Trinidad as a respected Swami. Despite the accident on the 401 that kept many devotees in traffic for up to 2 ½ hours, many made their way to listen to the great teachings of Swami Prakash Ananda. Swamiji resides in Trinidad where he oversees the Chinmayananda Ashram in Central Trinidad, where he lectures and teaches in all academic and spiritual subjects. Swamiji is a mentor, spiritual advisor and role model to many, and his teachings are ones that will never be forgotten.
The short but sweet lecture focusing on the glories of Sri Hanuman Ji was fascinating, as Swamiji explained how we as individuals could learn a great deal from Hanuman Ji's endless love, devotion, and determination. Swamiji's message was one that everyone in attendance that night could relate to: that beauty lies within.
He began the evening chanting the name of Sri Ram, and ending with a verse from the Shree Hanuman Chalisa: aura devataa chitta na dharaee, hanumata sei sarva sukha karaee. Swamiji's focus was to teach us how to see the beauty in all people, how to differentiate between infatuation and love, while finding absolute peace and happiness. He expanded on Hanuman Ji's great virtues and ways that we can obtain them.
One of Hanuman Ji's greatest virtues is that he has love for all creatures, all beings, and unconditional love for the Lord. Swamiji defines the two extremes of love and infatuation. He explains that when our love expands, it is true love (such as what Hanuman Ji demonstrates), but when our love is centered on one person, it is then our love turns into infatuation, which is the negative aspect of love.
The night ended with more chanting accompanied by the Devi Mandir Kirtan Group, which captivated the audience as everyone was clapping and singing along, glorifying the Lord. The evening was a great success, as Swami Prakash Ananda gave each devotee something to think about.
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 Christina Mohan
Christina, a devoted youth of the Devi Mandir is currently in her 3rd year at the University of Toronto, Scarborough purusing her Bachelor of Arts in English as well as minors in Geography and History. A charismatic and cheerful young woman, Christina volunteers regularly at the Devi Mandir.
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October 03, 2009
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