Festivals illuminate our lives with joy and foster stronger, lasting connections within our community. They provide a meaningful and vibrant way to honor and celebrate our rich heritage, culture, and traditions.
At Chinmaya Haridwar, festivals are special occasions where we come together with friends and family not only to pray but also to share a delicious feast lovingly prepared by our dedicated Shadras volunteers.
Here’s a recap of our 2024–25 celebrations:
Ganesha Puja:
We begin our school year with the auspicious Ganesha Puja. Our children crafted Ganesha idols from mud, performed a simple puja themselves, and carried out a festive procession culminating in Visarjan.
Navaratri:
This beloved festival honoring the divine feminine is one of our center’s most eagerly awaited events. From beautifully decorated Golu steps to lively Dandiya dances, Navaratri offers a joyous, family-friendly celebration that brings our community together.
Diwali:
The festival of lights unites not only Chinmaya families but the wider community as well, with a grand Lakshmi Puja followed by dazzling fireworks.
New Year’s Day Ganesha Puja:
Just as we begin our school year with prayers to Lord Ganesha, we also welcome the new year with a special Ganesha Puja performed by expectant mothers.
Mahashivaratri:
This solemn occasion provides an opportunity to chant the Sri Rudram and offer Lord Shiva his favorite milk abhishekam. It’s heartwarming to witness children and parents alike patiently performing the rituals with devotion.
Holi:
Undoubtedly the most anticipated and well-attended outdoor event of the year, Holi brings the entire Portland community together to celebrate with vibrant colors.
Sri Rama Navami:
Marked by the chanting of the Sunderkand Parayanam, this event is a cherished moment of devotion, filling our center with spiritual energy and bliss.
Paduka Puja:
Throughout the year, we honor our Guru by performing Paduka Puja on auspicious occasions such as Tapovan Jayanthi, Gurudev Jayanti, Guruji’s birthday, Guru Purnima, and Gurudev’s Maha Samadhi.
Krishna Janmashtami:
We conclude our school year with this favorite festival of the children. The puja is followed by bhajans and a fun-filled candy handi celebration.
We look forward to continuing these joyous traditions that enrich our lives and strengthen our community bonds.