By : Shashi Khanna.
Multi cultural community celebrate Ramnavmi & Ashtami at Malak temple , Darwin NT
Ramnavmi,birth of Lord Rama who is incarnation of God Vishnu(the creator) as said beautifully in Hindu scripture ‘Ramayana’.Its also the ninth day of Navratri – the 9 auspicious days of Puja and celebrations in India. All the regions and states in India celebrate these days in various forms and different styles.
Malak temple at Darwin at Northern Territory in Australia had crowd of chirpy devotees who gathered to celebrate this day. Durga Puja in Harmony hall which is adjoining the temple was continuing for past eight days. The Malak temple also known as Sri Sai temple is constructed in South India architectural design, beautiful colourfully carved tomb had idols of many deities over the Shivalinga. Idols of Lord Krishna , Nataraj , Ganesh ji adorn the temple room along with Goddess Lakshmi ( prosperity), Saraswati (wisdom & knowledge) and Durga ( power & strength) pictures hung on the ‘ parikarma’ ( the circular path around the main deity also to look & bow before every form of God ).
Many Lamps were lighted with Prasad offered by devotees layed on the huge table in front. The fragrance of flowers added to the pious atmosphere.
The evening started with recital of Mantras from Vedas, all singing rhythmically with the temple priest and devotees. Singing in praise of Lord Shiva and applauding his grace in different forms mesmerized every one. Love and God’s praise doesn’t know any language or words but yes the emotions and feelings of every one present was connected to Almighty. Devotional bhajans followed, sung by devotees who sang with great zeal and enthusiasm.
Hawan was performed in the temple compound with all rituals and blessings for everyone present and their families.
It was really wonderful to see people from different states of India who have their roots there but still celebrate their values and beliefs as a united family in this foreign land. It seemed like a big joint family calling for God’s blessings togather. The importance of Yagya and hawan in this age of awareness of environmental pollution is scientifically proven.
Community meals followed with food volunteered by members. A big feast of different tastes and delicacies further flavoured the divine and cultural atmosphere.
I can’t hold myself to share my personal emotions to participate in these celebrations. India may be divided in various states but here I found ‘ a strong Indianness’ where all gathered to celebrate and be a part of everybody’s happiness and joy. All communities celebrate each and every festival giving regard and respect to every culture. I find myself awestruck to see the Fiji Indian community participating in the Vedic rituals. It is surely to be acknowledged how this group has been able to pass that cultural heritage to their generations who follows our spiritual heritage of Vedic times with all the perfection and zeal.
The vibrant support , participation and contribution Fiji Indian community is doing to save gaurd the prosperous and enriched Indian spirituality and philosophy is commendable. They are for sure an example for Individuals who have lost track, faith and trust in our Indian culture and pride of our oldest History of Hinduism.
I salute and bow to their unmonitored and untaught zeal of religious heritage and their ancestors who were blessed with this vow. This will always have special place in my heart and mind followed in my writings.
