By Paridhi Gupta

Chinmaya Mission Dhara hosted this year’s annual Devi Retreat in Niagara Falls from October 17 to October 20, 2024. Guided by Shri Vivek Gupta and Shri Vilasini Balakrishnan, with the theme ‘Divya Shakti: Finding Your Feeling’, this marked the 10th in-person retreat in 12 years, excluding two that were held online due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Chinmaya Dhara welcomed 54 Devis of all ages from various cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, Cleveland, Raleigh, Washington D.C., and others.

Each day began with Devis observing mauna (silence), engaging in contemplation or chanting while appreciating the sunrise over Niagara Falls. Throughout the day, they participated in satsanga sessions led by Vivekji and Vilasiniji, centered on the text Dṛg-Dṛśya-Viveka. Vilasiniji also provided guidance on incorporating sakshi-bhava into daily life. Additionally, Devis enjoyed workshops that helped them apply insights from the satsangas and concluded their day with a lovely bonfire accompanied by chaat.

Chinmaya Mission Niagara set a goal of raising $54,000 to support the education of young Devis at Chinmaya Vijaya, an orphanage founded by Dr. Sumathi Mukkamala. This effort was part of the Elevate HERStory movement for women’s empowerment. Together with the community, Devis exceeded this goal, raising over $60,000 for this meaningful initiative.

Next year’s Devi Retreat will be held at Chinmaya Mission Gayatri in Cleveland, Ohio.