Kondri Gopalpur – The spiritual landscape of Kodari was illuminated with devotion this week as the three-day Shrimad Bhagwat Katha, organized by the Hanumant Ashram Foundation, concluded on a note of overwhelming success and divine bliss.
From January 20th to January 22nd, the Hanumant Ashram in Kodari, Gopalpur, transformed into a hub of religious fervor. Thousands of devotees from the village and surrounding areas flocked to the venue, drawn by the promise of spiritual enlightenment and the vibrant cultural performances that accompanied the scripture reading.
A Confluence of Devotion and Art
The program was a unique blend of deep spiritual discourse and visual storytelling. The daily schedule was packed with engagement, featuring the Rasleela and live Jhankis (tableaux) in the afternoon from 1 PM to 5 PM, followed by the main Katha in the evening from 7 PM to 10 PM.
The highlight of the event was the mesmerizing narration by Katha Vyas Kamlesh Kumar Pandey (Mridul Ji Maharaj). Ascending the Vyas Peeth, Mridul Ji Maharaj held the audience captive with his melodious and insightful interpretation of the Bhagwat Purana. His narration of the divine plays of Lord Krishna brought tears of devotion to many eyes, while his explanations of dharma resonated deeply with the elders and youth alike.
“The purpose of the Bhagwat Katha is not just to listen, but to imbibe the virtues of the Lord in our daily lives. Seeing the unity of the villagers here today proves that devotion is the strongest bond,” Mridul Ji Maharaj remarked during the final discourse.
Mesmerizing Jhankis and Rasleela
Beyond the spoken word, the event was a visual treat. The Rasleela performances brought the legends of Vrindavan to life in the heart of Gopalpur.
The live Jhankis were particularly praised by the attendees. Actors dressed as deities—including vivid portrayals of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Radha-Krishna—moved through the crowd, creating an immersive experience. The “Shiv-Parvati Vivah” tableau was a crowd favorite, receiving a standing ovation and flowers showered by the devotees.
Community Spirit Shine
The event was a testament to the power of community collaboration. As stated on the event banners, the program was made possible through the “cooperation of villagers and regional residents.”
Volunteers from the Hanumant Ashram Foundation worked tirelessly to manage the crowds, ensure seating arrangements, and distribute water and tea to the attendees. The atmosphere was one of total discipline yet utter joy, with the chants of “Jai Siya Ram” and “Radhe Radhe” echoing through the night air.
A Grand Conclusion
On the final day, January 22nd, the program concluded with a massive Maha Aarti followed by a Bhandara (community feast). Devotees of all backgrounds sat together to partake in the Prasad, symbolizing social equality and brotherhood.
Residents of Kodari expressed their gratitude to the organizers, noting that such events bring a wave of positive energy to the village. The Hanumant Ashram Foundation has promised that, given the massive success and turnout of this year’s annual festival, next year’s event will be even grander.
