A few weeks ago Acharya Arumuganathaswami and Natyam Jayanatha had traveled to Boston, Massachusetts. The two had been there to attend the World History Association conference and to visit several local temples. At the conference, Acharya spoke on a panel which focused on the presentation of Hinduism and Indian history in modern academia, particularly in relation to what appears in student text books. A common theme at the conference was a trend in academia to give a narrative voice to people's and traditions that had previously been looked at through a Eurocentric or colonialist lens.

Following the conference our two traveling monks visited the Boston Sri Kalikambal Siva Temple. There are very few Hindu temples in the Boston area, but those that do exist are thriving. Just 6 months after opening its doors, this temple was bustling with educational and devotional activity. Acharya and the temple's head priest have known each other for over 20 years. Acharya gave a talk to the group and a short presentation about our work in Hindu education. It seemed as though nearly everyone there had some sort of prior association with Kauai Aadheenam, whether through visiting or reading our books or magazines. With so much prior knowledge and familiarity the group felt like instant family. It was a wonderful respite from the academic world just experienced. Our monks then made there way to the Lakshmi temple. There just happened to be a chariot parade for the Temple's Siva Nataraja and Shakti taking place. While this was a shorter visit, it was a powerful one, as the Temple's Lakshmi shrine was scintillating with light and energy. A good way to end the journey in Boston. The next day our travelers caught their flight back towards Kauai. Aum Namah Sivaya

Bodhinatha's Latest Upadeshas - Commentaries on Path to Siva
What is Bhakti?, Lesson 28 (June 25,2017)

Gurudeva teaches that in our tradition there is always pure devotion/bhakti for God but it deepens as we progress as a calm, intelligent expression of love. Theism leads to monism. Behold the light of life through meditation. Perceive one light in everything, everyone. We are That when we reach the last stage of wisdom. Experience that God is Love and then you become that Love.

Path to Siva, Lesson 28.