Mathura, September 4 (Daily Kiran) : The atmosphere in Mathura-Vrindavan transforms into one of devotion as Janmashtami approaches. Temples and ashrams alike prepare to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna. For the elderly women residing at Gauri Gopal Ashram, this festival holds a special significance. They partake in the celebrations with great enthusiasm and reverence.
Bina, who has been living at the ashram for nearly two years, shares her experience. She expresses that her time here has been comfortable, with adequate provisions for food, milk, and medications. She feels well-cared for, stating that all her needs are met.
Preparations for Janmashtami begin days in advance at the ashram. Celebrations peak at midnight when Lord Krishna’s birth is commemorated. A unique tradition involves using cucumbers for the birth ceremony, followed by offering various foods, including singhara and tikhor, as prasad. Aniruddhacharya Maharaj also ensures that additional offerings are available.
Bina notes that while few family members visit her now, her daughter and son-in-law make it a point to come regularly. They bring clothes and essentials, such as sarees and blankets, which provide her with a sense of connection and love from her family.
Reflecting on her time at the ashram, Bina feels a sense of belonging. The care provided by Maharaj Ji and the staff makes her feel at home. She is deeply connected to her faith, often writing religious verses and chanting the names of Krishna and Ram. During our conversation, she even sang a devotional bhajan dedicated to them.
Another resident of the ashram, who has also been there for about two years, shares her gratitude for the care she receives. She feels that the attention and support provided here are exceptional. She recounts her past, having raised her brother and taken care of children in affluent families. As life progressed, her family became busy, and she found herself in need of support, leading her to Gauri Gopal Ashram.
The stories shared by these elderly women highlight the warmth and community fostered within the ashram, especially during the joyous celebrations of Janmashtami.
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