Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, Sri Swamiji's Teachings

Celebrating 60 Years of Avadhoota Datta Peetham

On May 5, 2026, devotees around the world celebrated a truly special milestone — the 60th anniversary of Avadhoota Datta Peetham. This remarkable occasion marks six decades of spirituality, devotion, service and compassion that have touched the lives of countless people across generations and continents.

What began as a sacred spiritual mission has grown into a global source of faith, healing and guidance for devotees seeking peace, strength and a deeper connection to the divine. For many, Avadhoota Datta Peetham is far more than an institution or ashram. It is a spiritual home — a place where prayers are offered, traditions are preserved, hearts are comforted and lives are transformed.

At the center of this extraordinary journey is His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, whose teachings and humanitarian work continue to inspire millions around the world. Revered as a spiritual master, healer, humanitarian and guide, Sri Swamiji has dedicated His life to uplifting humanity through faith, compassion, discipline and selfless service.

The significance of Sri Swamiji’s presence within the lives of devotees cannot truly be measured. Through His wisdom and guidance, many have found hope during difficult times, peace during uncertainty and strength during personal struggles. His teachings remind devotees of the importance of humility, devotion, kindness and inner growth in everyday life.

One of the most unique aspects of Sri Swamiji’s mission has been His emphasis on healing through music and spirituality. Through Nada Yoga and devotional music, He has shown how sound, prayer and faith can bring emotional and spiritual balance to individuals and communities alike. Beyond spirituality, His humanitarian efforts through hospitals, charitable projects, educational initiatives and acts of seva (selfless service) have positively impacted countless lives.

Having the opportunity to visit Avadhoota Datta Peetham was an experience that is difficult to fully put into words. Each day was a blessing. Every temple, prayer space and sacred area carried deep spiritual significance and meaning. The serenity, peace and overwhelming sense of calm we experienced there made it feel less like visiting a place and more like returning home. It is Nada Mantapa, it is the Universal Prayer Hall,  it is Shuka Vana, it is the Bonsai Garden, it is Lord Venkateshwara Temple, it is Vishwak museum, it is the cows, the monkey, the birth pillars and every other aspect that makes it Heaven on Earth.  

There was something incredibly comforting about the atmosphere — the prayers, the devotion, the discipline and the unity among devotees. It created a sense of belonging and spiritual connection that remains unforgettable. In a world that often feels rushed and chaotic, Avadhoota Datta Peetham offered a rare sense of stillness, reflection and inner peace.

The 60th anniversary of Avadhoota Datta Peetham is not simply a celebration of time passed, but a celebration of a living legacy built upon devotion, service and unity. It is a moment to reflect on how many people have been guided, healed and inspired through the Peetham’s mission over the past six decades.

It is also an opportunity to honor the dedication of devotees, volunteers and spiritual seekers around the world who have faithfully supported and carried forward these teachings throughout the years. Their unwavering devotion continues to strengthen the spiritual family that Avadhoota Datta Peetham has become.

In today’s fast-paced and often uncertain world, the Peetham remains a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, compassion, discipline and service to humanity. Its message continues to transcend borders, cultures and generations, bringing people together through spirituality and devotion.

As this historic milestone is celebrated, may the blessings and teachings of His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji continue to inspire hearts for many more generations to come. May Avadhoota Datta Peetham continue to shine as a beacon of peace, healing and divine grace for the world.

Jaya Guru Datta.

Posted in Uncategorized

Celebrating Hanuman Chalisa Chanting at Coromandel Shiv Mandir

Sita Ram! Jaya Guru Datta! Sri Guru Datta!

Indeed January 31, 2016 was a blessed and blissful day! If you missed this opportunity to join with us we are happy to share some of it with you via this post and if you were with us, this is our way of letting you know how meaningful your presence was to us.

It was a day Coromandel Shiv Mandir hosted the Datta Kirtan Mandali members and it was a day that we together with many other devotees were looking forward to! For those who know Coromandel is where I grew up and an opportunity to be at the Mandir and in my family home is always something I look forward to thoroughly.

We had planned on leaving earlier than we actually did but we were happy that we got there on time. Interestingly enough we met our Datta family just before we reached Chatham and were able to witness the full Hanuman Chalisa Chanting event! When the function ended we were able to spend more time with everyone-our Coromandel Shiv Mandir family, our Datta family, my family, members of the Epic ChanTTing Team and other devotees who are equally dear to us!

Here is what the official invitation looked like and we were happy to share it with as many people as we could.

12552615_10153832907502356_1916186983886358948_n
This was created by my sister- Ria Thomas

The Mandir as always was beautifully decorated and at the entrance we were greeted by the beautiful Murti of Lord Ganapati! Ganapati Bapa Moriya! When we got there Pundit Naresh Maharaj was concluding puja and devotees were seated, awaiting the start of the chanting!

Many would agree that Hanuman Chalisa Chanting is so therapeutic, so meaningful, and it is always filled with so much love and energy. This event is indeed a memorable one and it is considered by us all as a great blessing. It was a collective effort as teamwork was present throughout. Moreover it was a blissful, a powerful and an awesome experience. No one word could fully describe it.

Here are some of the pictures I was able to get:

csm4
Sri Gyan Ramlogan and Members of the Datta Kirtan Mandali as they get ready for chanting

 

csm5
Prayer was being offered-Om Namo Hanumate Namaha

 

shiv ji baba

Lord Shiva was adorned with a beautiful fresh flower Mala made by Auntie Asha Moonsammy

 

hanuman baba
Lord Hanuman was adorned with another beautiful fresh flower Mala made by Auntie Asha Moonsammy

 

csm8
Hanuman Chalisa Chanting was in progress! Jai Veer Hanuman!

 

csm2
Devotees were doing Aarti

csm1
Standing by the Bedi was Pundit Naresh Maharaj who conducted Puja prior to the start of chanting.  

 

csm3
Devotees stood with clasped hands and sang as the Aarti was being performed.

Every moment spent was one to cherish. We could tell that everyone enjoyed this experience because of the radiant smiles we saw, the way everyone participated in chanting and in the feedback we received following the function.

We had just over 125 devotees in our presence and chanted Hanuman Chalisa 14 times.

It was a joyous occasion too as it allowed Epic ChanTTing members to officially meet each other.

January 31, 2016 remains a memorable day for the Coromandel Shiv Mandir and its Members. From my Mom (Mrs Doris Thomas), my Dad (Mr Ranjit Thomas), and all other Members of the Coromandel Shiv Mandir to the Members of the Datta Kirtan Mandali and all Devotees, we thank you each of you wholeheartedly for chanting Hanuman Chalisa with us! May the continued Blessings of the Divine Master be with you now and always!

Jai Veer Hanuman! Bajrang Bali Ki Jai! Om Namo Hanumate Namaha!