After the vows are taken, it is time for the initiation. Paramacharya Ceyonswami feels the blessings coming forth.

The swamis carefully review the Vow Books. They have been edited very carefully in the decades since Gurudeva started his ministry. Today they are some of the most beautiful texts we have produced.

You can see part of the sannyasin’s vows here.

Bodhinatha keeps both the vibration and our spirits high with his presence.

As is traditional with the Nathas, all new sadhakas will have earrings.

Bodhinatha gives each one a sandalwood mala, a wood evoking compassion and reaffirming their new path of service for humankind. They also receive new robes.

Sandalwood paste is applied on their freshly shaven heads. It is a ritual to confirm they let go of the ways of the world.

They take vows of humility, purity, obedience and confidence, and will strive to shine forth the ideals of Saivite monasticism.

Left to right: Sadhaka Nandinatha, Sadhaka Tandavanatha and Sadhaka Rajanatha.

Welcome to the loftiest path, brave ones.

Jai Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami and the Kailasa Paramapara!

Aum Namah Sivaya.