Celebrating Navratri, Aadi Masam, and Timithi: A Journey of Devotion and Unity
Vannakkam
As we look back on the recent Navratri and prepare for the month of Mariamman and the upcoming Timithi (firewalk in New York), we feel a strong sense of anticipation and renewal. This year, our celebrations honoured our rich traditions and found new ways to connect and grow as a community. Navratri took us on a spiritual journey through the sacred spaces of Suriname’s and Guyana’s mandirs, immersing us in vibrant and heartfelt festivities. As we connect our North Indian and South Indian roots, we remember our ancestors who crossed the Kala Pani but held onto our cultural traditions more deeply than the soul to the body. Their resilience inspires us to come together, celebrate our shared heritage, and continue fostering a sense of belonging and unity in our community.
Each night of Navratri, the mandirs were alive with the spirit of devotion and celebration. The Sri Sita Ram Mandir on Cassialaan No. 58 was a hub of festivity. Guided by Pandit Shyaam
Mahadewmmissier, the nightly ceremonies deepened in devotion with soulful kirtans, insightful lectures, and elaborate rituals. The community gathered for bhajan, Ramayan, nari, and kirtan samaj, celebrating the nine forms of Devi Durga with a Shrimad Devi Bhagvat Gyan Yagna. This spiritual journey was marked by vibrant participation and a shared dedication to honoring the divine feminine.
To further enrich our spiritual journey, we joined the Self-Realization Fellowship/Yogoda Satsangh Meditation, guided by Guruji Yogananda’s Kriya Yoga practice and the teachings of Shankaracharya and Patanjali. This serene space allowed for profound inner reflection and spiritual connection. As Paramahansa Yogananda said, “The Divine Mother’s love is the supreme liberating force.” This resonated deeply with us during Navratri, as we honored the divine feminine and embraced her transformative power.
Throughout the nine nights of celebration, the rich tapestry of Tamil culture and religious tradition was evident. We worshiped the Divine Mother in her form as Mariamman, with Tapu and Uddakai music, folk songs, and the offering of
many coconuts. The burning of sambrani added to the sacred atmosphere, and the community danced in devotion. The evenings concluded with a performance of garba, blending a Gujarati theme, showcasing the diverse yet unified spirit of the community.
The celebrations continued at the Sri Parbattie Mandir, where we were warmly welcomed to offer prasad and participate in the kirtan samaj. Known for its rich diversity and inclusive spirit, the Sri Parbattie Mandir stands out with the largest children’s group in Suriname. The leadership’s dedication to nurturing the next generation is remarkable, making every effort to train and inspire the young ones through various activities and teachings. The festival at Sri Parbattie Mandir was filled with enthusiasm and devotion. The highlight was the Kanyakumari Pooja, a powerful ceremony honouring the divine feminine, which was followed by a vibrant dance performance by the young children. Their energy, devotion, and joy were infectious, bringing a sense of renewal and hope to the community. The children’s performances, including traditional dances and bhajans, showcased their talents and the comprehensive spiritual education they receive at the mandir.
The leadership at Sri Parbattie Mandir created a nurturing and loving environment, ensuring that these children grow in faith, unity, and cultural pride. This Navratri, the young ones truly embodied the spirit of the festival, demonstrating the enduring strength and vibrant future of the community. The two Sri Radha Krishna Mandirs—one in North Blauground and the other on Kashmirstraat—each offered a unique experience with their distinct architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance. These temples served as platforms for chanting, prayer, and reflection, welcoming us to sing and offer prasad. A unique aspect of Navratri celebrations in Suriname is the Londawakenaach, a joyful dance that concludes each night’s festivities. This traditional dance, performed with great enthusiasm, symbolizes the community’s joy and unity, reinforcing the bonds of fellowship and faith. The energy of the Londawakenaach, coupled with the vibrant participation at the mandirs, showcased the profound sense of togetherness and devotion within the community.
As we reflect on the profound spiritual journey of Navratri in Suriname, we are filled with gratitude and devotion. The ceremonies at the Sri Sita Ram Mandir, the enriching experiences at the Tamil Koodhal, and the vibrant celebrations at the Sri Parbattie Mandir and Sri Radha Krishna Mandirs have deeply enriched our souls. The joyous Londawakenaach dance and the heartfelt participation of the community have reinforced our bonds of faith and unity. As we prepare to journey to New York to join the Timithi celebrations for Mariamma with Aya Goparla and the Shri Shakti Mariamma Temple, our hearts are energetic and full of devotion. The upcoming Navratri in September and October promises to be another opportunity for spiritual growth and communal harmony. We look forward to these celebrations with anticipation, ready to embrace the divine feminine and continue our path of devotion and unity.
In these times of celebration and reflection, may the spirit of Navratri and the blessings of the Divine Mother guide us all. Let’s carry forward the lessons of understanding, compassion, and faith in every step we take. These festivals connect us with our spiritual roots and strengthen our bonds as a community, fostering unity and a shared purpose that transcends borders. As we celebrate, let’s remember to spread love and kindness, ensuring that the divine energy of these sacred traditions lights up our lives and the world around us.
Upon reflecting on my journey, I realized I was raised with the belief that I should only attend one organization or mandir. After my mom passed away, it became evident that relationships within our community could change dramatically. This experience prompted me to widen my circle and visit all mandirs, breaking out of my bubble. In small communities, we must live as one family, extending ourselves beyond our immediate circles. By sharing our time, donations, and efforts
with everyone, we can foster true unity and ensure that we all grow together, supporting each other through all of life’s changes.