Coimbatore IYI
|
In response to a further need for expansion, a new facility for the IYI was procured in 1996. From the terraced rooftop, one sees the temple of Maruda Malai from the distance. This is where Sri Gurudev's great uncle, Kuttiappa, experienced the blessings of Lord Muruga. Sri Gurudev's birthplace, the village of Chettipalayam, lies fifteen kilometers to the south. Also south and a bit to the west of Coimbatore is Perur Temple, where Sri Gurudev served as temple manager for some time. Situated as it is, amidst the landscape of Sri Gurudev's childhood and in the devotional ambience of the Tamil people, the IYI has flourished. In December 2002, at which the keynote speaker was devotee and renowned actor Sri Rajni Kant, more than 15,000 attended the festivities. The teaching staff now includes 20 people, and on a typical day, more than 100 students attend classes. The IYI also sponsors social service projects such as medical checkups, Yoga classes for orphaned children, and tree planting. Two of the children who attend Satchidananda Jothi Nikethan are on full scholarship, sponsored by several of Sri Gurudev's American disciples. Every three months, the IYI, along with the J K Periaswamy Trust, runs a residential, Dean Ornish-based program for heart patients. The IYI also organizes pilgrimages to South Indian temples and ashrams for both Western and Indian devotees. Some of these temples are more than two thousand years old, with mantra recitation going on for many hours each day. Experiencing the Shakti (spiritual energy and vibrations) in these temples is always a high point of our India tours. In its own humble way, the Coimbatore IYI is a meeting place for two cultures. Western devotees gain new insight into Sri Gurudev's teachings, and for many it is also very healing. As one visitor wrote, "I brought my soul home to rest for a while." |
|
