Evolutionary Enlightenment in India: Days 6-9

By Joel Pitney

Andrew’s trip to Rishikesh was in many ways a return home. This “City of Sages” in the foothills of the Himalayas is the place where his teaching was born 26 years ago and he was welcomed graciously by many old friends, from the Swamis at Sivananda and Parmarth Niketan Ashrams to the book shop and restaurant owners all around town to countless acquaintances, old and new. He gave five teachings during the four days he was in town. He spoke twice at the famous Satsang Hall in Sivananda Ashram–first describing his relationships with the late great successors of Swami Sivananda, Swami Chidananda, and Swami Krishnananda, and second, giving a concise exposition on how the path to spiritual Enlightenment and its goal are ultimately one and the same. He also gave a teaching to the students of the Ashram’s Forest Academy, encouraging them to think deeply and independently about the most important existential question–the ultimate meaning of existence and our relationship to it–which has been a recurring theme throughout his time in India. Finally, Andrew gave one talk and one Q&A session at the International Yoga Festival at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, where he was hosted by his friend Swami Chidanand Saraswati. The timeless spiritual depth and magic of India amidst her ever-increasing noise and grime shines through in these pictures.

Rishikesh

103 Photos

<< Read Andrew's editorial for the Speaking Tree on the modern Indian spiritual predicament.
<< See photos from days 1-5 in Mumbai and Ahmedabad
<< See photos from days 10-12 in New Delhi and Calcutta.

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