April 26, 2008

Festive Barsana Dham Mela concludes

with Shree Swamiji's discourse

In what has become a highly anticipated annual festival to the Austin community, the Barsana Dham Mela (traditional Indian Fair) and open house once again brought together many who have become acquainted with its enjoyable charm. For several days, the flashing sign at the entrance to the campus announced the coming event - the food, Indian music, games, and dance performances. All to be had while taking in the splendid gardens, beautiful walkways, and devotional atmosphere associated with Barsana Dham.

The night before the Mela, an expected thunderstorm caused the set up preparations to stand still. But with the clear skies the next morning, everyone quickly resumed the preparations to finish the last-minute details, as well as the decorations that would welcome all that would come. Car loads upon car loads of families, ultimately over 5,000 people, were met with smiling volunteers’ faces, who directed them towards the brightly decorated temple. As parents walked with their children, many kids ran ahead to see a horse-drawn carriage ride. With their eyes wide open with eager anticipation of getting a chance to ride behind the horses, or take a turn in the inflatable jumping booths, they were oblivious to the numerous vendors’ tents who displayed decorative Indian clothing, handicrafts, or specialty items like multi-patterned parasols.

All ages enjoyed many kinds of Indian delicacies (prepared by a huge team of Austin volunteers) and some local Indian restaurants. As the afternoon progressed, several people strolled the grounds, and families found picnic tables in the shade of trees to rest. But there would be very little time to rest, as an even bigger event was in store. As Shree Swamiji's car pulled in front of the temple, a crowd of hundreds cheered and clapped. Others came running to join in. Swamiji was met with deep affection by members, and the Austinites who had come to the Mela.

As the outdoor festivities came to a close, the people moved inside the temple for the evening program. With so many entering the prayer hall, the announcer asked everyone to move closer together to let others inside. As one of the Barsana Dham teachers placed a flowered garland on Swamiji, the audience spontaneously applauded. The faces of the overflowing audience shown with thoughtfulness as Swamiji spoke of the opportunity available to everyone to gain spiritually with proper understanding of the aim of life. As the day came to an end, people went home, having come and experienced the Mela and Barsana Dham in the truest sense.

Part of Shree Swamiji's Mela Speech