Self Unfoldment Program – 2019

The Chinmaya Mission of South Africa conducted a unique first-time-ever 6 weeks Foundation course in Vedant called as the Self Unfoldment Program (SUP) which provided a wonderful opportunity to all sincere seekers to go through an in-depth study of our scriptures, under the most able & inspiring guidance of Pujya Swami Abhedanandaji (Spiritual head of CMSA). This residential course was conducted from 1st June till 15th July 2019 and it attracted seekers from all walks of life and all ages.

Total of 24 seekers from South Africa, India and Singapore had the blessed opportunity to delve into this life-transforming program as they studied the sacred texts such as Kathopanishad, Bhagavad Gita, Tulsi Ramayan and Valmiki Ramayana.

While thoroughly enjoying their stay at the serene ashram, the students drank the nectar of scriptural knowledge each day through each discourse of Swamiji. By 5.30 am each day, all students were seated in the temple and had the blessed dharshan of the beautiful Lord Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum. This auspicious start was intensified by Rudri Chanting by Pujya Swamiji which set the divine course for the day ahead and continued till the evening Arti and Ramayana chanting.

Pujya Swamiji compassionately and effortlessly expounded on the profound text of the Kathopanishad. Whilst revealing the essence of each mantra, Pujya Swamiji revealed the answers to innumerable questions of the seekers. Each of the student’s incorrect notions and insistences were broken down as Swamiji patiently repeated each important point till it was clearly understood by all seekers.

To further explore our new-found knowledge and solidify our understanding the students engaged in group discussions which were conducted by the Brahmacharins every day. Every moment of the day was filled with some new learning. Chanting class was conducted by Br. Abijit Chaitanya. Students who had no prior experience of Vedic chanting were able to chant Medha Sukhtam and various other stotras. Every Monday and Thursday, Gayatri Havan and Guru Paduka Puja was conducted.

Due to Pujya Swamiji’s great vision of nurturing devoted and holistic seekers, the students had the great fortune of learning Samskrit. The advanced Samskrit class was conducted by Br. Abhijit Chaitanya and the beginners class was conducted by Ruchir Madaree. These classes provided the fundamental knowledge which enabled students to read and write in Samskrit and better understand our Vedantic texts.

After in-depth exploration and contemplation of the Kathopanishad, Pujya Swamiji focused on chapter 12 of the Bhagavad Gita and expounded on Upasana and the qualities of a Gyani (Man of realization).

The students were in awe of the tremendous depth of knowledge and compassion in Pujya Swamiji. The SUP course may have ended but Swamijis vision further blossoms as further lessons continue in the Ashram.

Please click here for pictures from the Self Unfoldment Program.

Categories: Special Events