A Dip in the Holy Ganga

For a long time now Yoginathaswami has held a gentle wish in his heart that, one day, he would touch the River Ganga, bathe in its sanctifying waters. That desire was finally fulfilled in Rishikesh.

We were taken to the river's edge by the swamis of Omkarananda Ashram, to a gentle spot in front of one of their many massive buildings. A sandy beach greeted us, the river's soft invitation to enter.

Yoginathaswami went first, finding a spot deep enough to permit the required three immersions. Then Sadasivanathaswami followed, soon to learn how very cold this water is. It makes sense, as it is all glacial melt here, not far from the beginnings of the great river. It even has that tell-tale color that glacier waters always have. Cold. Cold Cold! Blessed. Blessed. Blessed!

We bathed with a mind that all of Gurudeva's shishyas were here with us, all dipping down with us, all releasing karmas of the past, all receiving Siva's special grace. Jai Gurudeva! And thank you, Bodhinatha, for blessing this journey.

The swamis take us to the river at their padasala

So pure

Then nearby is their public ghat where we will bathe. A quote from Swami Omkarananda inspires all pilgrims.

Yoginathaswami meets Ganga Mata

Down

Will he return?

Yes

Thrice into the icy current

One happy sannyasin...

Sadasivanathaswami\

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Mission accomplished, thanks to our hosts

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