(100228,2,'2013-09-23 16:16:36','2013-09-23 23:16:36','<!-- BEGIN Featured Article -->\r\n<h2><a style=\"text-decoration: none;\" href=\"/mandala/why-she-and-why-a-dark-goddess/\">Featured Article: Why She & Why a Dark Goddess</a></h2>\r\n<!-- Header image -->\r\n<a href=\"/mandala/why-she-and-why-a-dark-goddess/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100107 imgborder\" alt=\"Dark Goddess Parvati\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/DarkGoddessParvati.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<p>Humanity is now experiencing a shift in evolutionary consciousness especially catalyzed and facilitated by the Divine Female. Goddess, as She is often called, can be represented through a variety of guises, forms, and names; but it is because we tend to think of God as strictly male and usually transcendent that we avoid this term when speaking about Her, although she is nonetheless that. In this brief introduction to the Dark Goddess, we seek to shatter limiting notions of the Great Mystery and welcome you to Her embrace.</p>\r\n\r\n<p><strong><em><a href=\"/mandala/why-she-and-why-a-dark-goddess/\">Read more...</a></em></strong></p>\r\n\r\n<br /><br />\r\n\r\n<strong><em></em></strong>[tabgroup]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"The Sha\'can Tradition\"] [blog category=\"48\" perpage=\"\" pagination=\"\" ][/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Goddess Inspirations\"] [blog category=\"46\" perpage=\"\" pagination=\"\" ][/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Initiations, Power &amp; The Antinomian\"] [blog category=\"47\" perpage=\"\" pagination=\"\" ][/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Articles','','inherit','open','open','','99177-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:16:36','2013-09-23 23:16:36','',99177,'<!-- BEGIN Featured Article -->\r\n<h2><a style=\"text-decoration: none;\" href=\"/mandala/why-she-and-why-a-dark-goddess/\">Featured Article: Why She & Why a Dark Goddess</a></h2>\r\n<!-- Header image -->\r\n<a href=\"/mandala/why-she-and-why-a-dark-goddess/\"><img ',0,'revision','',0),(100229,2,'2013-09-23 16:30:16','2013-09-23 23:30:16','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379978974431.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <I>yoni tattva</I>, the essence of the Divine Female.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali,  Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa! \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First (2004) Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"SHARANYA&#039;s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]  \r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">Yoni Puja (2006 & 2007)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:30:16','2013-09-23 23:30:16','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379978974431.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/ev',0,'revision','',0),(100230,2,'2013-09-23 16:31:44','2013-09-23 23:31:44','','Bagala Temple','','inherit','open','open','','india-2007-106','','','2013-09-23 16:31:44','2013-09-23 23:31:44','',0,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100231,2,'2013-09-23 16:38:33','2013-09-23 23:38:33','Dear Kaula, Community, and Friends of SHARANYA:\n\nI\'m excited to report that, <i><b><span>Crafting Puja for Maa: Understanding Ritual &amp; the Devotional Experience in the Sha\'can Tradition of Western Shakta Tantra,</span></b></i> was chosen for presentation at the <a href=\"http://www.aarweb.org/Meetings/Annual_Meeting/Current_Meeting/default.asp\">American Academy of Religion</a>\'s national conference held from November 7-9, 2009 in Montreal. The presentation was part of the <a href=\"http://www.aarweb.org/Meetings/Annual_Meeting/Current_Meeting/Program_Book/default.asp?ANum=A8-270&amp;DayTime=&amp;KeyWord=&amp;Submit=View+Program+Book#results\">New Religious Movement</a> section within a rich and relatively diverse forum under the theme, <a href=\"http://www.aarweb.org/Meetings/Annual_Meeting/Current_Meeting/Program_Book/default.asp?ANum=A8-270&amp;DayTime=&amp;KeyWord=&amp;Submit=View+Program+Book#results\"><i>The Turn East Revisited: New Religions from Asian Traditions</i></a>.\n\nMany contributed to my research and I\'m deeply grateful for all of your efforts. Thank you! You can view results in <a href=\"http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/email/newsletter/1410091117\">SHARANYA\'s November newsletter</a>. As you engage the material, please feel free to send any questions you may have and let me know what you think. <a href=\"https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm&amp;fs=1&amp;tf=1&amp;to=chandra@sharanya.org\" target=\"_blank\">Email me!</a>.\n\nFor your reference, here\'s the proposal and abstract:\n<blockquote>Through a confluence of feminism, goddess-focused spiritualities, and access to various forms of Hinduism, as well as given a growing Indian-American population with Hindu diasporic roots and bi-cultural sensibilities, a Western Shakta Hindu perspective and related forms of worship and practice are emerging today that assert both authenticity and independence from the Hindu source. One such emergence is the countercultural religious tradition known as Sha\'can, a Western Shakta Tantra.\n\nIn this paper, I discuss the history of the tradition and examine the ways in which Shakta and Tantric Hindu beliefs and practices have been assimilated, transmitted, or otherwise adopted and incorporated into modes and methods of worship. The question of appropriation will be addressed and evaluated. Other roots or influences within the tradition, such as ecofeminism and Western earth-based spiritualities, will be elucidated, using interview material from Sha\'can practitioners of various geographic and demographic backgrounds to do so. In this vein, the paper will also briefly engage the question of if or how Sha\'can sits within the recognized Indo-Pagan movement.\n\nUsing this as a backdrop for the creation of deeper understanding of the tradition\'s emphasis on \"the bridging of East and West through (r)evolutionary, embodied spirituality, sadhana (spiritual practice), wisdom teachings, and worship of the Goddess in Her myriad forms,\" and especially as Kali Maa, \"our beloved Dark Mother...a change agent for our times...helping to transform, empower, and heal individuals, communities, and the planet,\" I will then relate my own experience as a leader in the San Francisco-based SHARANYA community where the Sha\'can tradition originally evolved, sharing personal experiences of coming to the divine as Maa Kali and how that shaped the formation of the community in 1998.\n\nGiven this history and context, the focus of the paper will be demonstration of the evolution of spiritual practice in the tradition, particularly noting how emphasis on personal connection to the Divine is made manifest for both those who lead (whether as primary officiant or inner circle community member) and those who participate in Sha\'can pujas (whether as an initiate in the tradition or someone in the extended family of community members). This research will then be juxtaposed with both Shakta Hindu temple puja, and ceremonies conducted for the public by Pagan covens or similar earth-based spiritual organizations. From this, the boundaries of Sha\'can ritual will be delineated, offering insight into Shakta Hindu and Western religious sources, as well as innovations of the tradition.\n\nAn exploration of how public puja (worship), as a centerpiece of Sha\'can\'s commitment to engaged spirituality, is performed, when it is performed, by whom, using what symbols, icons, and forms, why it is performed, and noting who/what is invoked as deity will help uncover: i) how participants\' experience is facilitated; and ii) the nature of that experience.\n\nThe specific nature of practitioners\' experience will be further studied relative to the bhakti (devotional) path within Hinduism and the religio-cultural norms of the developed West (particularly the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia) in which the vast majority of practitioners reside. This will be done in order to answer the question, \"What is the experience of devotees in Sha\'can ritual?\" I will argue that the answers to this question may help underscore the importance of the tradition as an exciting case study for the development of Hinduism in America with ramifications for the new religious movement.\n\n<strong>Abstract:</strong>\n\nHinduism is a source of inspiration in myriad Western spiritual communities, with practitioners offering devotions to Hindu deities on their home altars as readily as they supplicate resurrected and reconstructed divinities from other pantheons. Combine this trend with a confluence of feminism, goddess-focused spiritualities, and a growing Indian-American population that has Hindu diasporic roots and bi-cultural sensibilities, and we witness the birthing of new, culturally relevant and accessible Hinduisms. This paper explores the particulars of ritual and devotion within the countercultural religious tradition known as Sha\'can, a Western Shakta Tantra, in order to offer insight into Shakta Hindu and Western sources with the possibility for an exciting case study at the crossroads of East and West that has potential ramifications for the new religious movement.</blockquote>\nJai Maa!\n\n<em>Chandra</em>\n\nRashani Chandranath Alexandre, Ph.D., D.Min.\nFounder &amp; Executive Director\nSHARANYA / The Maa Batakali Cultural Mission, Inc.\n415.505.6840\n415.723.7299 (fax)\nwww.SHARANYA.org\nWhere East Meets West in Her Name\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Visita Inferiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem\n~ Yaireva Patanam Dravyaih Siddhih Taireva ~</p>','Crafting Puja for Maa','','inherit','open','open','','100124-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:38:33','2013-09-23 23:38:33','',100124,'Dear Kaula, Community, and Friends of SHARANYA:\n\nI\'m excited to report that, <i><b><span>Crafting Puja for Maa: Understanding Ritual &amp; the Devotional Experience in the Sha\'can Tradition of Western Shakta Tantra,</span></b></i> was chosen for presentat',0,'revision','',0),(100232,2,'2013-09-23 16:39:11','2013-09-23 23:39:11','Dear Kaula, Community, and Friends of SHARANYA:\r\n\r\nI\'m excited to report that, <i><b><span>Crafting Puja for Maa: Understanding Ritual &amp; the Devotional Experience in the Sha\'can Tradition of Western Shakta Tantra,</span></b></i> was chosen for presentation at the <a href=\"http://www.aarweb.org/Meetings/Annual_Meeting/Current_Meeting/default.asp\">American Academy of Religion</a>\'s national conference held from November 7-9, 2009 in Montreal. The presentation was part of the <a href=\"http://www.aarweb.org/Meetings/Annual_Meeting/Current_Meeting/Program_Book/default.asp?ANum=A8-270&amp;DayTime=&amp;KeyWord=&amp;Submit=View+Program+Book#results\">New Religious Movement</a> section within a rich and relatively diverse forum under the theme, <a href=\"http://www.aarweb.org/Meetings/Annual_Meeting/Current_Meeting/Program_Book/default.asp?ANum=A8-270&amp;DayTime=&amp;KeyWord=&amp;Submit=View+Program+Book#results\"><i>The Turn East Revisited: New Religions from Asian Traditions</i></a>.\r\n\r\nMany contributed to my research and I\'m deeply grateful for all of your efforts. Thank you! You can view results in <a href=\"http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/email/newsletter/1410091117\">SHARANYA\'s November newsletter</a>. For your reference, here\'s the proposal and abstract:\r\n\r\n<blockquote>Through a confluence of feminism, goddess-focused spiritualities, and access to various forms of Hinduism, as well as given a growing Indian-American population with Hindu diasporic roots and bi-cultural sensibilities, a Western Shakta Hindu perspective and related forms of worship and practice are emerging today that assert both authenticity and independence from the Hindu source. One such emergence is the countercultural religious tradition known as Sha\'can, a Western Shakta Tantra.\r\n\r\nIn this paper, I discuss the history of the tradition and examine the ways in which Shakta and Tantric Hindu beliefs and practices have been assimilated, transmitted, or otherwise adopted and incorporated into modes and methods of worship. The question of appropriation will be addressed and evaluated. Other roots or influences within the tradition, such as ecofeminism and Western earth-based spiritualities, will be elucidated, using interview material from Sha\'can practitioners of various geographic and demographic backgrounds to do so. In this vein, the paper will also briefly engage the question of if or how Sha\'can sits within the recognized Indo-Pagan movement.\r\n\r\nUsing this as a backdrop for the creation of deeper understanding of the tradition\'s emphasis on \"the bridging of East and West through (r)evolutionary, embodied spirituality, sadhana (spiritual practice), wisdom teachings, and worship of the Goddess in Her myriad forms,\" and especially as Kali Maa, \"our beloved Dark Mother...a change agent for our times...helping to transform, empower, and heal individuals, communities, and the planet,\" I will then relate my own experience as a leader in the San Francisco-based SHARANYA community where the Sha\'can tradition originally evolved, sharing personal experiences of coming to the divine as Maa Kali and how that shaped the formation of the community in 1998.\r\n\r\nGiven this history and context, the focus of the paper will be demonstration of the evolution of spiritual practice in the tradition, particularly noting how emphasis on personal connection to the Divine is made manifest for both those who lead (whether as primary officiant or inner circle community member) and those who participate in Sha\'can pujas (whether as an initiate in the tradition or someone in the extended family of community members). This research will then be juxtaposed with both Shakta Hindu temple puja, and ceremonies conducted for the public by Pagan covens or similar earth-based spiritual organizations. From this, the boundaries of Sha\'can ritual will be delineated, offering insight into Shakta Hindu and Western religious sources, as well as innovations of the tradition.\r\n\r\nAn exploration of how public puja (worship), as a centerpiece of Sha\'can\'s commitment to engaged spirituality, is performed, when it is performed, by whom, using what symbols, icons, and forms, why it is performed, and noting who/what is invoked as deity will help uncover: i) how participants\' experience is facilitated; and ii) the nature of that experience.\r\n\r\nThe specific nature of practitioners\' experience will be further studied relative to the bhakti (devotional) path within Hinduism and the religio-cultural norms of the developed West (particularly the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia) in which the vast majority of practitioners reside. This will be done in order to answer the question, \"What is the experience of devotees in Sha\'can ritual?\" I will argue that the answers to this question may help underscore the importance of the tradition as an exciting case study for the development of Hinduism in America with ramifications for the new religious movement.\r\n\r\n<strong>Abstract:</strong>\r\n\r\nHinduism is a source of inspiration in myriad Western spiritual communities, with practitioners offering devotions to Hindu deities on their home altars as readily as they supplicate resurrected and reconstructed divinities from other pantheons. Combine this trend with a confluence of feminism, goddess-focused spiritualities, and a growing Indian-American population that has Hindu diasporic roots and bi-cultural sensibilities, and we witness the birthing of new, culturally relevant and accessible Hinduisms. This paper explores the particulars of ritual and devotion within the countercultural religious tradition known as Sha\'can, a Western Shakta Tantra, in order to offer insight into Shakta Hindu and Western sources with the possibility for an exciting case study at the crossroads of East and West that has potential ramifications for the new religious movement.</blockquote>\r\nJai Maa!\r\n\r\n<em>Chandra</em>\r\n\r\nRashani Chandranath Alexandre, Ph.D., D.Min.\r\nFounder &amp; Executive Director\r\nSHARANYA / The Maa Batakali Cultural Mission, Inc.\r\n415.505.6840\r\n415.723.7299 (fax)\r\nwww.SHARANYA.org\r\nWhere East Meets West in Her Name\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Visita Inferiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem\r\n~ Yaireva Patanam Dravyaih Siddhih Taireva ~</p>','Crafting Puja for Maa','','inherit','open','open','','100124-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:39:11','2013-09-23 23:39:11','',100124,'Dear Kaula, Community, and Friends of SHARANYA:\r\n\r\nI\'m excited to report that, <i><b><span>Crafting Puja for Maa: Understanding Ritual &amp; the Devotional Experience in the Sha\'can Tradition of Western Shakta Tantra,</span></b></i> was chosen for present',0,'revision','',0),(100233,2,'2013-09-23 16:40:32','2013-09-23 23:40:32','','Kali Maa','','inherit','open','open','','081310-ybca-bowls-project','','','2013-09-23 16:40:32','2013-09-23 23:40:32','',0,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100234,2,'2013-09-23 16:43:04','2013-09-23 23:43:04','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nEcofeminism understands our current planetary predicament to involve crises of the environment and spirit, crises that impact all of creation regardless of particularities; crises that will only be undone when women and nature, the marginalized and the oppressed, are no longer contained within a patriarchal paradigm. Goddess spirituality of the west is one counter-force that acts on multiple levels to undermine manipulative patriarchal identity branding and control. It is a subversive tactic in part because it can and does, as many of us have experienced personally, transcend national, political, and religio-cultural interests. With this, the goddess of the west (however envisioned) is today joining together with a goddess-centered spirituality of the east known as Sakta Tantra. At SHARANYA, we call our tradition Sha’can.\r\n\r\nAs the founder of SHARANYA, it is important to share that ecofeminism and Tantra both encompass and engage my personal beliefs on political, spiritual, theological/thealogical, cosmological, and practical levels. I come to this work of spirituality as an ecofeminist and woman of deep spiritual conviction. I am an initiated Sakta, an initiated Tantrick and an hereditary witch. Although much of how I identify sits readily outside of the normative, I have been nevertheless socialized from birth to fit within the dominant socio-cultural frameworks of the United States. With this and given the privilege of a good education, I have found that my own identity and on-going struggle to emerge, for a variety of reasons, from a patriarchal paradigm benefits from both an ecofeminist deconstruction of the western worldview (a worldview based upon duality), and a Sakta Tantrick[1] cosmology that reveres the immanence of spirit and in turn provides ritualized as well as lived practices in which the body acts as and becomes substance for the Divine.\r\n\r\nThe Goddesses of both these contexts, I believe, are coming together now at least in part to help establish an identity politic that transcends patriarchal gender valuations, in order to finally break the bonds of the patriarchal paradigm that hold both men and women. Patriarchy, after all, is not simply something with which women contend; it is an oppressive paradigm with which the whole of society the world over contends, while gender itself, of course, cuts across categories of race, class, ethnicity and other such distinctions. And while it is obvious that oppression is not limited to gender, oppression based on gender is similarly not independent of other factors. But within a revisioned gender-identity framework (an example of which I will talk about in just a moment), one based upon spiritual values such as those the Goddesses of east and west empower, I believe alternatives can be found and implemented that actually promote life as a rich and diverse system of interrelated and interdependent actors and functions rather than as a field for pathological experimentation.\r\n\r\nBoth ecofeminist and Tantrick philosophies and practices can be articulated as integralism. Neither promotes the sublimation of diversity within a life-negating One. Rather, both visions hold Trinitarian notions—notions that in my mind foster the unfolding and dynamic spiraling of life. Each specifically has an articulated theology of divine immanence (as mentioned already for Tantra), and to greater or lesser degree (somewhat lesser, I believe, in the case of ecofeminism, but one nevertheless) of transcendent spirit in relationship to it, making these systems ready partners in many respects. And indeed, the scholarly literature has already produced an ecofeminism of Tantra.[2] With particular reverence for the human body, Earth, and indigenous traditions as sacred and meaningful, and an approach that brings together eastern and western philosophies, spiritualities, and cosmologies, an ecofeminism of Tantra (informed by writers, traditions, philosophies, rituals and visions from both contexts) becomes, in my opinion, a much clearer lens through which to view and act in the world.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4>The Work of Our Spirituality</h4>\r\nTantra’s point most generally is the realization of an integrated wholeness of polarities.[3] Framed as integralism, or what I like to call a radical non-duality of relationship, this means that already extant in this eastern system of spiritual thought is a model for unpathologized and dynamically balanced relationships. In Sakta Tantra specifically, this idea is placed in an environment where none other than Goddesses (or The Goddess, known generally as Devi, or more specifically as Kali) rule; by this, I mean they are considered supreme, at once the ultimate creatrix of and point of dissolution for the Universe as well as the holders of paradox. As an aside, although the Sakta and Tantrick traditions are often conflated because of the importance of the goddess within Tantra generally, the followers of Tantra are not all primarily worshippers of the goddess. There are distinct paths within Tantra; however, it is devi who engages my heart, mind and soul, and hence not only my choice of tradition, but of exploration for a realized pathway out of patriarchy.\r\n\r\nThrough SHARANYA’s work in the world, we seek to develop an understanding of the Hindu fierce goddesses as they function to serve women and men in a rapidly transforming world. I therefore tend put my eye to the realm of Sakta Tantra where Mahakali (The Great Kali) of the Tantrick tradition is herself the triune vision of the goddess—Maid, Mother, and Crone, who supports all diversity in relationship. I do this because within this tradition, as Rita DasGupta Sherma[4] has suggested, are found (to western senses at least) ecofeminist principles and an empowering recognition of the Goddess that helps alter perspectives and paradigms. And this is of special importance in parts of the world such as ours, which are historically and most generally goddess-less lands...although that is has been changing now for some time with the presence of more and more people committed to an awakening and re-emergence of the Divine Feminine.\r\n\r\nIn terms of paradigms, ecofeminist methodology uncovers the project of patriarchy as a universal paradigm that destroys relatedness and promotes homogenization by rendering women and nature passive objects to be largely developed, controlled or consumed. One counter to this is found within Indian philosophy generally, and as proposed by Vandana Shiva, the call is to embracing the notion of Prakriti as living nature or Feminine principle, a principle that according to her, is the entirety of nature, inclusive of its ability to create, sustain, and destroy.[5] Shiva believes that such a philosophy can accomplish a more balanced worldview while promoting environmental sustainability and the well being of diverse, autonomous communities. Her work is important, I believe, in part because represents a non-dominant perspective, one garnered from India and proposed by an Indian woman. I also value Shiva’s contribution because she has been willing to bring spirit to the table as a viable source of empowerment in the larger ecofeminist discourse.\r\n\r\nShiva’s position also helps formulate that revisioned gender-identity framework to which I referred earlier. Hers is a transgendered approach to reworking dominant paradigm systems that accords with a relational radical non-duality. In it, prakriti asserts respect for everyone, meaning \"both a holistic perspective and an inclusive agenda of concerns based on its considerable respect for diversity—both in turn being principles of nature.\"[6] In this, ecofeminism as a philosophical position explicitly deepens a conversation about the creative tension of holding a universal/particular duality. In particular it stresses, along the lines of Ernesto Laclau’s description, relevant here, that it is the, “unresolved tension between universalism and particularism [that] opens the way to a movement away from Western Eurocentrism, through an operation that we could call a systematic decentering of the West.”[7]\r\n\r\nThis decentering provides not only a gateway, but serves an irresolvable paradox whose, again according to Laclau, “non-solution is the very precondition of democracy.”[8] This paradox is being articulately theorized, for example, by Shiva’s ecofeminism and is extant within Sakta Tantra. Sakta Tantra itself holds a strong conceptual container in which understanding the necessity of paradox exists. Created from the tension between the opposites of Purusa (the Masculine principle) and Prakriti, these principles are responsible for creating the world; for creating a balance of opposites required to maintain what Ajit Mookerjee calls “macrocosmic equilibrium,” or a state by which a “collective uniqueness realize[s] the feminine fullness of the universe.”[9]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4>Women, Feminism, Spirituality &amp; Goddess</h4>\r\nWith this conception of goddess-centered spirituality in mind, it is important to ask regarding the innovations of women’s or feminist spirituality today: what is the exact nature of the spiritual traditions being “innovated” for our purposes; by whom does that innovation get enacted; what or who is left behind in the process; and further, is feminism a concern only of women-occupied spaces (and it may be asked who defines those feminist spaces), or can feminism open a space within itself to include all women, all continents, and all genders? If so, what does that “inclusiveness” look like, particularly for peoples across differences of race, age, ethnicity, class, and culture?\r\n\r\nSpecifically of interest in developing an ecofeminism of Tantra are the contexts in which Indian women, Hindu spirituality, and feminism exist and overlap. Chandra Mohanty’s critique of Northern (First World) feminists who totalize Southern (Third World) women and ignore the differences among them is relevant here. Mohanty challenges Northern feminists not to essentialize Southern women, [10] and it is with this in mind that we at SHARANYA urge us all to endeavor a globalized feminist stance that includes sensitivity to the particulars; including, the relativism of truth claims that serve in the overall fight for an emancipatory discourse.\r\n\r\nAlso important in these areas of intersection and overlap among contexts and disciplines just mentioned is the kind of awareness Carol Lee Flinders brings to a conversation of feminism and spirituality in which she specifically recommends that western feminists enter into dialogue with Indian feminists so that each can learn from the other, particularly given the living goddess traditions of Hindu India and the ways in which these traditions inform some Indian feminisms.[11] Specifically because, while for some Indian feminists (as is true for many western feminists) spirituality is not an important focus, for others it is.\r\n\r\nThen, if engaging an east-west dialogue under the rubric of an ecofeminism of Tantra, looking at feminist concerns about the treatment and status of women in spiritual contexts is also necessary. Within Sakta Tantra especially, the literal position of women generally pales in comparison to the status afforded the goddess. While women may occupy a metaphysically high position—they may, in some cases, be said to be a small part of the devi’s sakti with some resultant real-world benefits—they are still most generally marginal. On the one hand, the Sakta tradition has been said to be:\r\n<blockquote>suited to all constitutions and to all stations of life. It is for the prince as for the peasant, for the poor as for the rich, for the man of business as for the man of leisure. It makes no distinction of caste, colour, creed, or nationality, welcoming one and all who will bow to the lotus-feet of the Divine Mother. [12]</blockquote>\r\nYet, it is still a tradition where many interpreters and practitioners often avoid discussing the role and status of women. For example, Barada Kanta Majumdar just quoted, seems to have left at least one distinction off his list—gender.\r\n\r\nOn the other hand, as David Gordon White notes:\r\n<blockquote>...it would be hasty to conclude, on the basis of the general Tantric exaltation of feminine energy, that female practitioners have ever dominated the religious or political Tantric sphere. Even in her transformative initiatory role, the Tantric consort has remained instrumental to the requirements of the male practitioners she transforms.[13]</blockquote>\r\nOther recent attempts to discuss women’s place in Sakta Tantrism have, while not exhaustive or entirely feminist, at least opened a door to a critical conversation in this regard. Some recognize that in many interpretations, women within the Sakta tradition have not generally been viewed as serving as anything other than ritual instruments for men’s sadhana or spiritual practice. But many, perhaps attempting to legitimate a feminist Sakta Tantra, are claiming women to have a significant role to play in the formal worship rites, in which they sometimes primarily act as initiator.[14] Nevertheless, taken with a critique in mind, Sakta Tantra can provide a model not only for the elevation of women’s status in Hindu society, but for the reclamation of goddesses and women’s empowerment the world over.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4>Conclusion</h4>\r\nWithin SHARANYA\'s vision, Kali as the Supreme Goddess again manifests, serving not only an ecofeminist reconceptualization of Sakta Tantra, but also a western push to break open the bounds of the Abrahamic faiths. For westerners, as Rita Gross argues, Kali may be telling us, “it’s okay to be female,”[15] and more generally, perhaps She’s telling humanity that it is okay to restore honor and dignity to the Feminine.\r\n\r\nTo conclude this brief introduction to an ecofeminism of Tantra conversation, we at SHARANYA offer that a collaboration of ecofeminist and Tantrick principles can help foster the development of a community supportive of life-affirming struggles rather than the struggles of continuing domination. An articulated ecofeminism of Tantra can become a rooted category of challenge to the dominant culture. In this awareness and action, women and nature will create real and individually meaningful values that translate to positive world transformation. In this awareness, we believe that subordinated communities will find ways to reclaim marginalized ideological and literal spaces. No matter where in the world, the creation and reclamation of such space can act on multiple counts to empower individuals and institutions.\r\n\r\nAn ecofeminism of Tantra can therefore:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>help build self-worth and positive identity frameworks;</li>\r\n	<li>foster the development of an “earth family”;</li>\r\n	<li>foster a participatory and sustainable environment; and</li>\r\n	<li>develop an ethic where exploitation is not conceivable in any context.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nLastly, it can help promote specific action, including ritual work and personal spiritual practice that informs engaged spirituality, as well as provide the tools for the unpathologizing and healing of relationships on all levels—between men and women, between the marginal and the normative, and ultimately, between our human species and the rest of the planet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[1] For an overview of Tantra not limited to the goddess-centered Sakta tradition, see for example, Georg Feuerstein’s Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy (Shambhala: Boston) 1998. Also, please note that this spelling, \"tantrick,\" denotes my personal preference based on some older Hindu scholarship as well as my intention to complement the western traditions in which spelling of “magick,” as opposed to “magic,” is specificly used so as to not confuse it with anything mudane, but rather draw out meaning as a sacred path. See, for example, Crowley, Aleister. Magick (Routledge &amp; Kegan Paul: London) 1973\r\n[2] See, for example, Rita DasGupta Sherma’s article “Sacred Immanence: Reflections of Ecofeminism in Hindu Tantra” in Nelson, Lance E. ed. Purifying the Earthly Body of God: Religion and Ecology in Hindu India (SUNY: Albany) 1998, or the earlier article by Lina Gupta, \"Ganga: Purity, Pollution, and Hinduism\" appearing in Ecofeminism and the Sacred, Carol J. Adams, ed. (New York: Continuum) 1993. More generally, Hinduism (which does not always include Tantrick elements) and environmental issues have been brought together in Christopher Key Chapple’s “Hindu Environmentalism: Traditional and Contrmporary Resources” in Worldviews and Ecology: Religion, Philosophy, and the Enviornment Mary Evelyn Tucker and John A. Grim, eds. (Orbis Books: NY) 1994\r\n[3] Mookerjee, Ajit and Khanna, Madhu. The Tantric Way: Art, Science, Ritual (Thames &amp; Hudson: London) 1977, p. 16\r\n[4] Sherma, Rita DasGupta. “Sacred Immanence: Reflections of Ecofeminism in Hindu Tantra” in Nelson, Lance E. ed. Purifying the Earthly Body of God: Religion and Ecology in Hindu India (SUNY: Albany) 1998\r\n[5] Shiva, Vandana. Staying Alive: Women, Ecology, and Development (Zed Books: London) 1989\r\n[6] Kothari, Rajni. Foreword in Staying Alive Ibid., p. X\r\n[7] Laclau, Ernesto. “Universalism, Particularism, and the Question of Identity” appearing in The Identity in Question (Routledge: New York) 1993, p. 106\r\n[8] Ibid., p. 107\r\n[9] Mookerjee, Ajit. Kali: The Feminine Force, ibid., p. 27\r\n[10] Mohanty, Chandra Talpade. “Under Western Eyes: Feminist Scholarship and Colonial Discourse” in Colonial Discourse and Post Colonial Theory Laura Chrisman and Patrick Williams, eds. (Columbia University Press: NY) 1994, pp. 196-220\r\n[11] Flinders, Carol Lee. At the Root of this Longing: Reconciling a Spiritual Hunger and a Feminist Thirst (Harper: San Francisco) 1998, see especially pp. 235-273\r\n[12] Majumdar, Barada Kanta. “Introduction: Vaidik and Tantrik Systems of Spiritual Culture Compared” in Principles of Tantra Part I, Woodroffe, Sir John (Ganesh &amp; Company: Madras, India) 7th Edition, 1991, p. 153\r\n[13] Tantra in Practice (Princeton University Press: NJ) 2000, p. 18\r\n[14] See, for example, Feuerstein, Georg. Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy (Shambhala: Boston) 1998, especially pp. 102 and 136, or for the Tantras as a paradigmatic model for women’s empowerment, see, for example, Rita DasGupta Sherma’s essay “Sacred Immanence: Reflections of Ecofeminism in Hindu Tantra” in Nelson, Lance E. ed. Purifying the Earthly Body of God: Religion and Ecology in Hindu India (SUNY: Albany) 1998, especially p. 93\r\n[15] Gross, Rita M. “Hindu Female Deities as a Resource for the Contemporary Rediscovery of the Goddess” in Journal of the American Academy of Religion, XLVI/3, September 1978, p. 286','Ecofeminism and Tantra','','inherit','open','open','','100113-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:43:04','2013-09-23 23:43:04','',100113,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nEcofeminism understands our current planetary predicament to involve crises of the environment and spirit, crises that impact all of creation regardless of particularities; crises that will only be undone when w',0,'revision','',0),(100235,2,'2013-09-23 16:47:22','2013-09-23 23:47:22','','Kali Maa','','inherit','open','open','','india-2007-174','','','2013-09-23 16:47:22','2013-09-23 23:47:22','',100071,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100236,2,'2013-09-23 16:50:54','2013-09-23 23:50:54','<em><em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nGoddess lore in India seems limited only by individual imagination. With every village comes another variation on basic themes, and every child growing up in India today learns many stories, just as a westerner might be introduced to fairy tales in kindergarten classrooms or as bedtime stories. It is through these myths that the glory of the goddess, and peoples’ love for her, grows. Here are some of her forms and most popular stories from within the Indian context to illustrate the variety of roles She fills.\r\n\r\nAs Durga, the Goddess is She who is “beyond reach” or “inaccessible.” She is Devi Mahishasuramardini (Goddess Killer of the Buffalo Demon) who appears to her devotees as both saumya (gentle and mild) and ghora (frightful and terrible). It is generally believed that she was a goddess of the agricultural peoples originally, and was later brahminized through the Sanskrit literature because of her incredible popularity. It has also been suggested that Her many battles in the Vedic literature are detailed because \"she had to fight her way into orthodox Hinduism.\" According to the Skanda Purana, she is none other than Parvati who takes on the role of warrior at Siva’s request to kill a giant demon of the name Durga. The demon cannot be killed by any of the gods because he is protected against the torments of any male by a special boon. Thus, Parvati alone is able to kill him, and in doing so, the goddess herself is named Durga. The demon then takes the form of a buffalo, an apparition that again appears in the famous Devi-Mahatmya tale of the slaying of Mahishasura, the buffalo demon (mahisha means buffalo). This tale begins:\r\n\r\nOnce in the land of the gods, a huge and terrible battle raged for hundreds of years. The gods were finally defeated, kicked from their celestial abode by the terrible leader of the demons, Mahishasura. The gods, who had fought the battle and lost, appeared before the greatness of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva, explaining their defeat. The major gods become furious, and from their faces “came forth a great fiery splendor, and also from the...bodies of all the other gods, Indra and the others...and it congealed into a single form.\" A little of Thomas Coburn’s continuing translation of the Devi-Mahatmya at this point will give a feel for the power of the tale of Durga’s appearance:\r\n<blockquote>A stupendously fiery mass like a flaming mountain the gods saw there, filling the firmament with flames. That matchless splendor, born from the bodies of all the gods, came together in a single place, pervading all the worlds with its lustre, and it became a woman...Devi bellowed aloud with laughter over and over again. The entire atmosphere was filled with her terrible noise, and from that deafening, ear-shattering noise a great echo arose. All the worlds quaked, and the oceans shook. The earth trembled, and the mountains tottered. The gods, utterly delighted, cried, \"Victory!\" to the one who rides on a lion.</blockquote>\r\n\r\nAnd so the Great Goddess is born, ready to fight the enemies of the gods. In her battle with the demons, she easily wins, and must finally confront the general, Mahisha himself. For this battle she is called Chandika, “The Violent and Impetuous One,” in part because Mahisha so infuriates her by changing form every time she attempts to kill him. The goddess charges and he changes into a lion. She cuts off his head, and he emerges from that body as a man, armed for battle. She kills him, and an elephant appears in his place. She chops off the trunk, and the buffalo is once again before her. Needing something to channel her focus, Chandika drinks her fill of wine and becomes intoxicated. She laughs at Mahisha as he roars and throws mountains at her during her break. She yells at him that soon it will be the gods who are roaring over his death and defeat. Downing her last gulp, the goddess leaps across the battlefield at Mahisha, stands upon his neck to stop him from changing into any other forms, pierces him with her spear and chops off his head. She is indeed victorious with this maneuver, and the gods sing her praise. She so loves their devotion that she tells them she will come again to their aid if they merely call. With this boon, she disappears.\r\n\r\nThe most detailed and glorious tale of Durga’s battlefield prowess comes when the gods, who remember her earlier promise, again call upon her. This time, She is asked to defeat the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha (two brothers). These demons had somehow managed to amass so much power that they deprived the gods of sacrificial offerings for a long time. This caused the gods tremendous stress because the offerings are what sustains their purpose—if they are not honored, they are depotentiated. This had been going on for so long that none of the gods could live in heaven any longer. The gods therefore sung out to the goddess, praising her for all things, hoping that she would help save them a fate of anonymity. When called, She came in her most beautiful aspect as Ambika. When Sumbha’s generals, Chanda and Munda, saw her, however, they immediately reported back to Sumbha of her splendor. They told him that she would be most worthy of his favors. Sumbha, being vain and wanting all things of beauty for his own, decided to have his minions ask for her hand in marriage on his behalf.\r\n\r\nThe generals then go to the goddess, but she tells them of a vow taken in her youth to only marry the one who can defeat her in battle. Upon hearing this from his emissaries, Sumbha is angry to think that a “mere woman” would thus suggest challenging him. He calls another of his generals, Dhumralochana (Smoky-Eyes), and tells him to take sixty thousand of his forces, grab the woman by the hair and return her to him. Dhumralochana goes forth to Chandika and at first tries to persuade her to come peacefully to Sumbha. She is not so inclined, and when Dhumralochana attempts to attack her, Chandika turns him and his battalions to ashes. The goddess is not easily had.\r\n\r\nSumbha quickly hears about his general’s defeat. He is so filled with hatred and desire to overcome and possess the goddess that he next summons Chanda and Munda, his most trusted officers. These two, acting on their commander’s request head off with the rest of the demon entourage and find Chandika in the Himalayas. They immediately begin firing arrows at her, and with this, the goddess lets her rage be known. She turns black in anger and fury, and from her brow, Kali emerges. This emanation of the goddess is her most fierce and gruesome.\r\n\r\nShe is depicted as emaciated, with red eyes, protruding tongue set for lapping up blood, black countenance, and wild, long, disheveled hair. She carries multiple weapons, a skull-topped staff, and emits alternatively hideous shrieks and deafening roars. Her only clothing, if any, is a tiger-skin wrapped about her waist, and she wears as ornaments a garland of freshly severed human heads and dead infant earrings. Kali easily slays the generals and offers their heads to Chandika, who then names her Chamunda, or slayer of Chanda and Munda. Then, both Chandika and Kali set out to kill Sumbha and his remaining armies.\r\n\r\nThe gods at this point send their power, or shakti, to the aid of the goddesses. (These matrikas as they’re known, are described below.) Together, these forces, along with the shakti of Chandika, called Aparajita, decimate all foes while those demons still able to do so flee the battleground in terror. One demon though, named Raktabija (Blood Seed, or Drops of Blood), comes forward again to fight. He has the special gift of being able to multiply wherever one of his drops of blood falls upon the earth. But Chandika and Chamunda team up to defeat him. Chandika lances the demon, weakening him, while Chamunda laps up his blood before it can reach the ground, thus ensuring his death. Now, only Sumbha and Nisumbha are left to challenge the goddesses. To make a long story short, however, devi withdraws Her emanations back into herself, kills Nisumbha first and renders Sumbha powerless, finally destroying him with one fatal pierce of her spear. The Goddess is yet again victorious.','Devi: Some Tales of the Great Goddess','','inherit','open','open','','100071-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:50:54','2013-09-23 23:50:54','',100071,'<em><em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nGoddess lore in India seems limited only by individual imagination. With every village comes another variation on basic themes, and every child growing up in India today learns many stories, just as a wester',0,'revision','',0),(100237,2,'2013-09-23 16:52:26','2013-09-23 23:52:26','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nGoddess lore in India seems limited only by individual imagination. With every village comes another variation on basic themes, and every child growing up in India today learns many stories, just as a westerner might be introduced to fairy tales in kindergarten classrooms or as bedtime stories. It is through these myths that the glory of the goddess, and peoples’ love for her, grows. Here are some of her forms and most popular stories from within the Indian context to illustrate the variety of roles She fills.\r\n\r\nAs Durga, the Goddess is She who is “beyond reach” or “inaccessible.” She is Devi Mahishasuramardini (Goddess Killer of the Buffalo Demon) who appears to her devotees as both saumya (gentle and mild) and ghora (frightful and terrible). It is generally believed that she was a goddess of the agricultural peoples originally, and was later brahminized through the Sanskrit literature because of her incredible popularity. It has also been suggested that Her many battles in the Vedic literature are detailed because \"she had to fight her way into orthodox Hinduism.\" According to the Skanda Purana, she is none other than Parvati who takes on the role of warrior at Siva’s request to kill a giant demon of the name Durga. The demon cannot be killed by any of the gods because he is protected against the torments of any male by a special boon. Thus, Parvati alone is able to kill him, and in doing so, the goddess herself is named Durga. The demon then takes the form of a buffalo, an apparition that again appears in the famous Devi-Mahatmya tale of the slaying of Mahishasura, the buffalo demon (mahisha means buffalo). This tale begins:\r\n\r\nOnce in the land of the gods, a huge and terrible battle raged for hundreds of years. The gods were finally defeated, kicked from their celestial abode by the terrible leader of the demons, Mahishasura. The gods, who had fought the battle and lost, appeared before the greatness of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva, explaining their defeat. The major gods become furious, and from their faces “came forth a great fiery splendor, and also from the...bodies of all the other gods, Indra and the others...and it congealed into a single form.\" A little of Thomas Coburn’s continuing translation of the Devi-Mahatmya at this point will give a feel for the power of the tale of Durga’s appearance:\r\n<blockquote>A stupendously fiery mass like a flaming mountain the gods saw there, filling the firmament with flames. That matchless splendor, born from the bodies of all the gods, came together in a single place, pervading all the worlds with its lustre, and it became a woman...Devi bellowed aloud with laughter over and over again. The entire atmosphere was filled with her terrible noise, and from that deafening, ear-shattering noise a great echo arose. All the worlds quaked, and the oceans shook. The earth trembled, and the mountains tottered. The gods, utterly delighted, cried, \"Victory!\" to the one who rides on a lion.</blockquote>\r\n\r\nAnd so the Great Goddess is born, ready to fight the enemies of the gods. In her battle with the demons, she easily wins, and must finally confront the general, Mahisha himself. For this battle she is called Chandika, “The Violent and Impetuous One,” in part because Mahisha so infuriates her by changing form every time she attempts to kill him. The goddess charges and he changes into a lion. She cuts off his head, and he emerges from that body as a man, armed for battle. She kills him, and an elephant appears in his place. She chops off the trunk, and the buffalo is once again before her. Needing something to channel her focus, Chandika drinks her fill of wine and becomes intoxicated. She laughs at Mahisha as he roars and throws mountains at her during her break. She yells at him that soon it will be the gods who are roaring over his death and defeat. Downing her last gulp, the goddess leaps across the battlefield at Mahisha, stands upon his neck to stop him from changing into any other forms, pierces him with her spear and chops off his head. She is indeed victorious with this maneuver, and the gods sing her praise. She so loves their devotion that she tells them she will come again to their aid if they merely call. With this boon, she disappears.\r\n\r\nThe most detailed and glorious tale of Durga’s battlefield prowess comes when the gods, who remember her earlier promise, again call upon her. This time, She is asked to defeat the demons Sumbha and Nisumbha (two brothers). These demons had somehow managed to amass so much power that they deprived the gods of sacrificial offerings for a long time. This caused the gods tremendous stress because the offerings are what sustains their purpose—if they are not honored, they are depotentiated. This had been going on for so long that none of the gods could live in heaven any longer. The gods therefore sung out to the goddess, praising her for all things, hoping that she would help save them a fate of anonymity. When called, She came in her most beautiful aspect as Ambika. When Sumbha’s generals, Chanda and Munda, saw her, however, they immediately reported back to Sumbha of her splendor. They told him that she would be most worthy of his favors. Sumbha, being vain and wanting all things of beauty for his own, decided to have his minions ask for her hand in marriage on his behalf.\r\n\r\nThe generals then go to the goddess, but she tells them of a vow taken in her youth to only marry the one who can defeat her in battle. Upon hearing this from his emissaries, Sumbha is angry to think that a “mere woman” would thus suggest challenging him. He calls another of his generals, Dhumralochana (Smoky-Eyes), and tells him to take sixty thousand of his forces, grab the woman by the hair and return her to him. Dhumralochana goes forth to Chandika and at first tries to persuade her to come peacefully to Sumbha. She is not so inclined, and when Dhumralochana attempts to attack her, Chandika turns him and his battalions to ashes. The goddess is not easily had.\r\n\r\nSumbha quickly hears about his general’s defeat. He is so filled with hatred and desire to overcome and possess the goddess that he next summons Chanda and Munda, his most trusted officers. These two, acting on their commander’s request head off with the rest of the demon entourage and find Chandika in the Himalayas. They immediately begin firing arrows at her, and with this, the goddess lets her rage be known. She turns black in anger and fury, and from her brow, Kali emerges. This emanation of the goddess is her most fierce and gruesome.\r\n\r\nShe is depicted as emaciated, with red eyes, protruding tongue set for lapping up blood, black countenance, and wild, long, disheveled hair. She carries multiple weapons, a skull-topped staff, and emits alternatively hideous shrieks and deafening roars. Her only clothing, if any, is a tiger-skin wrapped about her waist, and she wears as ornaments a garland of freshly severed human heads and dead infant earrings. Kali easily slays the generals and offers their heads to Chandika, who then names her Chamunda, or slayer of Chanda and Munda. Then, both Chandika and Kali set out to kill Sumbha and his remaining armies.\r\n\r\nThe gods at this point send their power, or shakti, to the aid of the goddesses. (These matrikas as they’re known, are described below.) Together, these forces, along with the shakti of Chandika, called Aparajita, decimate all foes while those demons still able to do so flee the battleground in terror. One demon though, named Raktabija (Blood Seed, or Drops of Blood), comes forward again to fight. He has the special gift of being able to multiply wherever one of his drops of blood falls upon the earth. But Chandika and Chamunda team up to defeat him. Chandika lances the demon, weakening him, while Chamunda laps up his blood before it can reach the ground, thus ensuring his death. Now, only Sumbha and Nisumbha are left to challenge the goddesses. To make a long story short, however, devi withdraws Her emanations back into herself, kills Nisumbha first and renders Sumbha powerless, finally destroying him with one fatal pierce of her spear. The Goddess is yet again victorious.','Devi: Some Tales of the Great Goddess','','inherit','open','open','','100071-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:52:26','2013-09-23 23:52:26','',100071,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nGoddess lore in India seems limited only by individual imagination. With every village comes another variation on basic themes, and every child growing up in India today learns many stories, just as a westerner ',0,'revision','',0),(100238,2,'2013-09-26 21:26:54','2013-09-27 04:26:54','<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"Maa Ugra Tara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" /><em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\n\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\n\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\n\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\n\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\n\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\n\n<hr />\n\n<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\n\n<!--nextpage-->\n\n<strong>Ritual for Goddess Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\n\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing and appealing to westerners now more strongly so that we may learn from and in turn honor them. They are liberators, and as Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess from among the residue of patriarchal traditions. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of non-Indian origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\n\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. \n\nMost broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\n\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into <em>sadhana </em>(spiritual practice), because ritual can be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this article, but also actually  trying it, whether alone or with others. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the Divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. \n\nWhen we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace. The following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. \n\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored, both in historical and cultural context, as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with Her spiritual essence manifest in the moment. In beginning any ritual, our tradition teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\n\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free natural tobacco, a small round fruit, such as a honeydew or watermelon, one votive candle (red, green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food have blessed and share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\n\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant as presented here: \n\n<h3>Om Maa!</h3>\n\n[thaudio href=\'http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Om-Maa-condensed.mp3\'][/thaudio]\n\nThe ritual ensues.\n\n<!--nextpage-->\n\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\n\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\n\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\n\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\n\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\n\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\n\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\n\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\n\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\n\n<strong>Purification and Puspanjali (Flower Offering)</strong>\n\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\n\n<!--nextpage-->\n\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\n\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. <a href=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/th_gallery/song-to-kali/>Read and listen here. Recite three times:\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\n\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\n\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\n\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\n\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\n\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\nTake in our love for you!\n\nor:\n\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\n\nor:\n\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\n\n\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\n\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\n\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\n\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\n\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and offers the <em>prasad</em> (blessed food) for sharing. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\n\nBlessings, and Sa\'ham!','Kali Puja for Home Use','','inherit','open','open','','100101-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-26 21:26:54','2013-09-27 04:26:54','',100101,'<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"Maa Ugra Tara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" /><em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is mul',0,'revision','',0),(100239,2,'2013-09-23 16:55:24','2013-09-23 23:55:24','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. To read the comments of some individuals who have worked the ritual publicly, click here.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our practice teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Awakening Devi: Kali Puja for the West','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:55:24','2013-09-23 23:55:24','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme',0,'revision','',0);
INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (100240,2,'2013-09-23 16:55:43','2013-09-23 23:55:43','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. To read the comments of some individuals who have worked the ritual publicly, click here.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our practice teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Kali Puja for the West','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:55:43','2013-09-23 23:55:43','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme',0,'revision','',0),(100241,2,'2013-09-23 16:56:25','2013-09-23 23:56:25','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. To read the comments of some individuals who have worked the ritual publicly, click here.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our practice teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Kali Puja for Home Use','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:56:25','2013-09-23 23:56:25','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme',0,'revision','',0),(100242,2,'2013-09-23 16:57:41','2013-09-23 23:57:41','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our tradition teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Kali Puja for Home Use','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 16:57:41','2013-09-23 23:57:41','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme',0,'revision','',0),(100243,2,'2013-09-23 17:00:34','2013-09-24 00:00:34','<h4>An Initiation into Womanhood</h4>\r\n<em>By: Delphyne Jodie Platner</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<strong>We Begin With a Story</strong>\r\n\r\nNaila perched on the edge of a sharp cliff overlooking the sea. On this momentous day the sun shone even brighter than usual, causing the water beneath her to sparkle a clear azure blue. During the last moon, Naila\'s blood had come down, the fateful sign that it was time for her to become a woman and leave her life as a girl behind.\r\n\r\nFrom then on, she would be permitted to dive with the women and men to provide food and other gifts from the sea for her village. She had looked forward to this day for as long as she could remember. Her people believed that a menstruating woman was at the peak of her power during this time, and the women in her community were especially respected for their magic and their wisdom. Her female elders were skilled in the healing arts, midwifery, and herbal medicine; the women were revered because they bled every month with the cycles of the moon yet did not die. They were revered for their ability to bring both female and male children into the world.\r\n\r\nThose who had passed the bleeding years were even wiser, it was said, because they stored the magical blood inside of them instead of releasing it with each moon. As far as Naila knew, her people had always existed in harmony with, and built their lives around, the sacred cycles of the Great Mother Goddess. Today marked the final stage in Naila\'s initiation into womanhood, which included the much-anticipated great leap of faith - a test of her strength and endurance, and more importantly, of her ability to move beyond her fear into a trusting of the universe to support her.\r\n\r\nAll of the women in her village sat around a bonfire, watching from the beach below. Naila knew that when she emerged from the water and stepped upon the shore where the elder women awaited her, she would be welcomed into their fold as a grown woman. There would be much feasting, drumming, dancing, and celebration.\r\n\r\nAlthough she had practiced holding her breath for the past year in preparation for this moment, Naila still felt a twinge of fear and hesitation as she peered over the cliff\'s edge. The ocean seemed very far away. She took some deep breaths and went to that place of great strength inside herself, which usually resided in her belly. \"Trust yourself and the Goddess,\" her mother had told her - just words before - but now, as she flew through the air like a bird, Naila understood them in an entirely different way. As she hit the surface and plunged into the depths, she felt the salty water washing away the traces of the girl she had once been. Her fear was gone and she fell into a peaceful and trance-like state. Time seemed to stand still. She marveled at the idea of her new-found ability to bring forth life into the world through her own body. Suddenly she felt connected to all life, even the fishes she swam past on her way down. As she moved deeper into the belly of the ocean mother, Naila reflected on the whirlwind of the past week.\r\n\r\nAs soon as she had discovered her first blood, her situation had been entirely in the hands of the female elders. She was not allowed to be in control of her own rite of passage. From that moment up until this morning, Naila had been isolated for what seemed like a long time in a hut some distance from the village. Her golden-brown body had been painted with red ochre to symbolize her initiation into the blood mysteries. It was always dark in the hut, like a womb, so she hadn\'t been able to keep track of the days. Though many of the women\'s cycles were synchronized so that they bled together, it was important that a young woman spend her first moon time alone. There she had nothing to do but offer her blood back to Mother Earth and embark upon an internal journey. She had been fasting to purify herself and induce visions and dreams which, according to the High Priestess, contained messages from the spirit world for both herself and her community.\r\n\r\nNaila came back to her present surroundings as the ocean\'s sandy floor drew near. She began to search for a treasure to bring back as an offering for the High Priestess. Her eyes were drawn to a magnificent conch shell. Reaching for it, she gave thanks to the spirit of the ocean for providing such an exquisite gift. With that she put both feet on the bottom and pushed off, kicking as hard as she could towards the light that shone through the surface of the water.\r\n\r\nWhen Naila\'s head emerged from the waves, all of the women cheered and sang her praises. She swam to shore. Her heart was racing with the excitement of her accomplishment as she stepped onto the beach, and she felt more alive than ever before. She drew the giant shell to her lips, and triumphantly blew a deep and resonant tune from the ocean\'s watery depths before presenting it to the High Priestess. After embracing her warmly, the High Priestess adorned her with a necklace of red flowers, then placed a red cape over her shoulders. \"Welcome, brave Naila,\" she smiled. \"It is an honor to welcome you to the society of women.\"\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacred Moon Time</strong>\r\n\r\nWhile this particular story is one that I imagined, many of the details could very well have been true. Many of the steps that Naila goes through in her initiation into womanhood are components of a traditional rite of passage. This is a ceremony or a ritual which serves as an initiation marking an important change in status for the individual — birth, menarche (the first menstrual period), marriage, and death are a few of the major ones.\r\n\r\nOnce a rite of passage has been completed, a woman can never go back to the girl she was before. That Naila is entering a community of women where the blood mysteries are honored makes her menarche a much more pleasurable and empowering experience. Not many girls in our day and age are lucky enough to have a menarche experience like Naila\'s. We have been taught to see our moon time as something to be ashamed of — something that should be hidden and disguised at all costs.\r\n\r\nThroughout recent history, social and religious institutions, which are run almost exclusively by men, have reacted to women\'s monthly bleeding with fear and mass hysteria, claiming it was poisonous, evil, and unclean, and that menstruating women belonged to the \"devil\". For example, the Bible teaches that menstruation and pain during childbirth are the burden we women bear for Eve\'s sins. I\'m here to tell you that none of this is true! Both your body and your moon time are sacred. It is a time of great power. In fact, many women report experiencing extraordinary visions, dreams, and heightened intuition and sensitivity during their monthly cycle. Menstruation is the one experience that unites all women across such socially constructed boundaries as race, class, age, and sexual preference. Perhaps this is why so many men fear it.\r\n\r\nOur world today is very different from Naila\'s, which could have existed any time before 2,000 BC. In honoring the Goddess in all of Her aspects, Naila and her people were practicing a nature or earth-based religion. This was both a way of life and a form of spirituality that existed long before any of today\'s male-dominated organized religions. The very essence of nature religions is feminine because they honor the Earth, Her cycles and seasons, and all of Her living creatures, whether human, animal or plant.\r\n\r\nThis belief system creates an atmosphere where people treat each other and their environment with respect — one where humans do not see themselves as separate from (or having the right to control) nature, but as a part of it. Did you know that our first calendars were created around women\'s moon cycles? Sadly, attitudes towards the things that were sacred and special in Naila\'s world (menstruation, childbirth, child rearing, sexuality, women\'s ways of knowing, creativity, the healing arts, ritual, ceremony and rites of passage) have been completely reversed today. What once was honored and celebrated is now considered dirty, shameful, disgusting, and not even worthy of our attention and discussion.\r\n\r\nHarvard professor Carol Gilligan has conducted many studies with young women on the brink of adolescence. Her research concludes that these young women are encouraged to give up their sense of self in favor of being in relationship. This means that, upon approaching adolescence, a girl is often forced to give up her own experience and accept one that has been determined for her by men. Girls experience pressure (from their friends, families and culture in general) to be \"good,\" to be caregivers and nurturers, to put other peoples’ needs and desires before their own. They receive messages about what they are \"supposed\" to be, do, or look like. Often these messages contain values and ideals that are very different from what girls inherently feel about who they really are and what they truly dream or desire to be. I believe these values are in deep opposition to our inherent female nature.\r\n\r\nAs a young girl, I didn\'t have many reasons to question what I knew. I was a wild child, very independent, intelligent, creative, and opinionated. When I entered junior high school, however, it seemed like the rules had changed and somebody had forgotten to tell me. Instead of being about substance — the person who I really was — the priorities switched. Now, they were about who my friends were, my weight, whether I was wearing the right clothes and had the right hair style, and if I had a boyfriend. All of a sudden I became much more concerned with what other people thought as opposed to trusting myself and doing what I knew was right. I began to question my own reality. It seemed that everyone else was so desperate to create it for me, and I recall very clearly feeling like my sense of self was stolen from me. While I didn\'t know what was happening at the time, I do remember how overwhelmed I felt. It was an incredibly painful and confusing time. I had never doubted myself before, so why did it all of a sudden seem as though my self-confidence went flying out the window without any warning at all?\r\n\r\nMuch of this can be explained by the society that shaped me — that shapes us. Even if we are lucky enough to have parents, family, and friends who love and support us, we are still exposed to the misogynist (women hating) messages and situations that are an inescapable result of life in a patriarchal society. The dictionary defines patriarchy as a social organization marked by the supremacy of the father in the clan or family, the legal dependence of wives and children, and the reckoning of descent and inheritance in the male line; or broadly as control by men of a disproportionately large share of power. We have lived under this system for approximately the past 5,000 years.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>The Great Legacy of our Female Ancestors</strong>\r\n\r\nI feel like if I had known about prehistory when I was 13, I would have had more strength to resist all the forces that were trying to change or steal my identity. I believe this knowledge would have helped me to continue to trust myself, despite all the confusing and often negative and misogynistic messages girls are bombarded with upon reaching adolescence.\r\n\r\nPrehistory — the time before recorded history — is much longer than documented history. Most scholars believe that history as we know it began with the written word. Our earliest writing comes from ancient Sumer (modern-day Iraq). It tells a story that dates back to around 1750 BCE (Before the Common Era) about the Goddess Inanna, who was hailed as Queen of Heaven and Earth. Fortunately, we have other ways of learning about prehistory besides the written word. Art, pottery, tools, cave paintings, temples, statues, ritual objects, and graves, for example, all have much to say about life thousands of years ago. These artifacts tell us that their makers were not violent and warlike, but a peaceful people who saw the female as divine — a people whose lives revolved around agriculture, the arts, and spirituality.\r\n\r\nYou may have heard the phrase,\"History is written by the winners\". The people who are writing the history textbooks that are most likely to be used in schools are in a powerful position to mold young minds to support and justify their point of view. They have had an agenda, a vested interest in having young people learn and believe their version of how things happened. You will find that many people (women, people of color, gays and lesbians, etc.) have literally been left out of these textbooks, except in the capacity of stereotypical roles that have been defined for them by the dominant culture. For the most part, our patriarchal system shows these marginalized groups no respect. It is important to remember to question, especially if things don\'t feel right, or it seems like something or someone is missing. Just because something’s written in a book doesn\'t mean it’s true.\r\n\r\nWomen have not always been second-class citizens. In fact, recent discoveries by archeologist and anthropologist Marija Gimbutas reveal that women and men once lived in primarily peaceful and egalitarian societies for at least 30,000 years. Many of these civilizations, like in Naila\'s story, were matrifocal, and in some cases it is possible that lines of descent were traced through the female - producing matriarchal cultures. It is important to mention that matriarchal is not the opposite of patriarchal. While women were highly respected and in positions of power, it was not at the expense of men. There was no domination but rather what appears to have been a relative sharing of power and responsibility. And because their monies and physical energies weren’t spent in preparing for, or going to, war, they were able to spend their time making art, concentrating on spirituality and ritual, and raising children.\r\n\r\nThough we can\'t return to the past, we can certainly learn from it. If people were able to live together peacefully for at least 30,000 years, they must have been doing something right. Also, it is very empowering for girls and women (and men, too) to understand that society hasn’t always been violent and oppressive. The 5,000 years we have lived under a patriarchal system that promotes hatred and bloodshed seems relatively short when compared to our total time on this earth.\r\n\r\nA few years ago, I took a trip to Greece with a group of women in search of ancient Goddess sites. The museums we visited were filled with hundreds of statues of Goddesses, queens, priestesses and women in sacred and ritual contexts. We explored caves, hilltop shrines, ancient altars to the Goddesses Artemis, Hera, Athena, and Ilithyia, and visited the site of the Pythia (the ancient oracles, who were priestesses the deities spoke through to provide hidden knowledge and predict the future) at Delphi. What I found there confirmed what I have always known in my body on a cellular level. I am referring to a way of knowing that is often difficult to explain in words because is feels far deeper and much older than language. This sort of intuitive knowing was likely very highly valued in prehistoric cultures.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Conclusion</strong>\r\n\r\nPerhaps the most significant gift I can offer a young woman is the wealth of information and knowledge I have acquired over the past several years. This information is empowering; I can only hope that it will be of use towards helping others make informed choices on what to believe in and what feels right. I have been blessed to be able to study with some amazing women who are teachers, priestesses, shamans, healers, and visionaries. This knowledge is not easily available to most young women, so I have included a list of books I might recommend for further study and exploration.\r\n\r\nKnowledge can take many forms. There are many things one can’t learn from a book. Young women, and women in general, are the authority on their own experience. Yet everyone else wants to claim or define it for us, tell us how to look, who we are, what we need to be beautiful, how to act to be popular and well-liked.\r\n\r\nOur body, however, remembers another way of defining what it means to be a woman. Many people believe that it holds certain memories going back to ancient times. Have you ever known something with all your heart, yet you hadn’t learned it in school, from a book, or from another person? Maybe it came to you in a dream? Spend some time listening to the memories that are stored in your body. You may find it helps if you are very quiet, or you may prefer to dance or do something physical. What do your body memories say? What sort of stories do they have to tell? What do you \"know \" that you couldn\'t possibly have learned anywhere else?\r\n\r\nWe\'ve all been brainwashed to believe that patriarchy is natural — that male domination is the way it always has been, and always will be. This is simply not the truth. Patriarchal religions substantiate their positions by referring to scriptures written by men that say that man shall have domain over women, children, animals, and the Earth — that he has a God-given right to control everyone and everything simply because he is \"man.\" Think about this for a minute. Isn\'t it interesting that all men are brought into this world and raised by women, but they tend to assign us inferior status and show us no respect? Trust your gut. Listen for the voices of your female ancestors. Make your own decisions about your body and how you want to be in the world.\r\n\r\n<strong>Questions for Reflection</strong>\r\n\r\nWhat follows are some things to think about; there are no right or wrong answers. I encourage you to keep track of your dreams during your moon cycle. Be sure to pay close attention to any visions or strong intuitions you experience during this time. You may want to have a special notebook or journal where you write down some of your feelings and personal stories. Note the following questions and your answers to them:\r\n\r\nWhat does it mean to you to be a woman?\r\nWho teaches you, or has taught you, to be a woman and how have they done so?\r\nHow did you or will you know when you finally become a woman?\r\nWould the world be different if men bled every month? How?\r\nWhat sort of ritual would you prepare (if any) to honor your daughter\'s or your own menarche?\r\nHow do you talk about sexuality with your daughter; or how would you like your mother to talk to you about it?\r\nWhat might be some other important times in life where we could celebrate rites of passage?\r\nIf you have any comments you\'d like to share, please e-mail me! I\'d love to hear what you have to say.\r\n\r\n<hr>\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Delphyne Jodie Platner, PhD, MFT</strong>, is member of SHARANYA\'s community who has written, lectured and priestessed ritual in the realm of women\'s spirituality. She recently opened an office in San Francisco where she practices psychotherapy and integrative healing. She can be reached for private work at (415) 262-0205.</em>','The Great Leap of Faith','','inherit','open','open','','100085-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 17:00:34','2013-09-24 00:00:34','',100085,'<h4>An Initiation into Womanhood</h4>\r\n<em>By: Delphyne Jodie Platner</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<strong>We Begin With a Story</strong>\r\n\r\nNaila perched on the edge of a sharp cliff overlooking the sea. On this momentous day the sun shone even brighter than usual,',0,'revision','',0),(100244,2,'2013-09-23 17:01:39','2013-09-24 00:01:39','<h4>Women Clergy in East-West Perspective</h4>\r\n<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThis article is a sharing of some of my initial research on the contemporary and historical landscapes of women clergy in goddess worshipping traditions with a focus on Pagan and Hindu faiths. The role and responsibilities of clergy within these traditions will be outlined based on fieldwork in India and material provided by seventeen priestesses of the developed world in order to create an opening to a conversation regarding the import and relevance of women clergy in these faiths to the politics of women’s lives and religious experience.\r\n\r\nAfter providing background information to help contextualize goddess-worshipping Hinduism, I then offer a case study highlighting the work of one Bengali Tantrika to facilitate the claim of a Tantrick female clergy. From here and as time constraints allow, I will share the perspectives of five of the seventeen Pagan priestesses from various traditions who provided me with information through interview, questionnaire, and survey feedback mechanisms.\r\n\r\nWith this work, I hope to expand the definition of clergy and provide instigation for: i) a discussion of how female religious leaders (as recognized both through formal and informal means) are serving the Divine Female/Goddess/Sacred Feminine; ii) their impact; and, iii) ramifications of their service and position for the broader collective. My inquiry focuses on the ways in which women clergy are pushing through patriarchal limitations in cultural, social, religious, and other arenas in order to facilitate communion, healing, empowerment, and transformation within their own spiritual communities...and beyond.\r\n\r\n<strong>Read the full article here: <em><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Voices-of-the-Goddess-Women-Clergy-in-East-West-Perspective.pdf\">Voices of the Goddess- Women Clergy in East-West Perspective</a></em></strong>','Voices of the Goddess','','inherit','open','open','','100094-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 17:01:39','2013-09-24 00:01:39','',100094,'<h4>Women Clergy in East-West Perspective</h4>\r\n<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThis article is a sharing of some of my initial research on the contemporary and historical landscapes of women clergy in goddess worshipping traditions with a foc',0,'revision','',0),(100245,2,'2013-09-23 17:32:09','2013-09-24 00:32:09','<em><i>By: Julie (Sanatani) McCord</i>\n\n<hr />\n\nIn many cultures, special taboos appear around menstruation and childbirth. Because a woman\'s cycle is often about the same length as the lunar cycle, special ties are acknowledged between women and the Moon. Because women bleed each month without taking harm, they are believed to have special powers during the bleeding, and the blood itself is powerfully magical. However, this is taken as either a positive or a negative depending on the culture. One of our objectives in working with the Mysteries is to move toward the positive viewpoint, in order to make this a time of increased power and self-healing.\n\nMenstruation and childbirth are sometimes used to define the triple aspect of Goddess and woman as follows:\n<ul>\n	<li><b>The Maiden</b> is the girl who has just had her first period;\n<b></b></li>\n	<li><b>The Mother</b> is the bleeding woman who has given birth and/or achieved fulfillment in her chosen career; and\n<b></b></li>\n	<li><b>The Crone</b> is the woman who has reached menopause.</li>\n</ul>\n<h4></h4>\n<h4><b>Biology<small>*</small></b></h4>\nA typical menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. We usually start counting from the first day of the period. During the first half of the cycle, the body produces estrogen. Then an egg is released from one of the ovaries; it travels through the fallopian tube for somewhere between 12 and 36 hours, and it is during this time that we are fertile. The empty egg sac releases progesterone, and the change in hormones signals the uterus to build up a lining called the endometrium. If the egg is not fertilized, then the hormone levels drop and the lining starts to break down; and 12-14 days after ovulation, the period starts, purging the unused lining from the body.\n<h4></h4>\n<h4><b>Our Cycle and the Moon</b></h4>\nSome writers theorize that ideally, we should ovulate at the Full Moon and bleed during the Waning Moon before the Dark Moon. However, if we look at the biology and see that there is always 12-14 days between ovulation and menstruation, we see that this doesn\'t quite work. Still, the comparison of cycles is informative, and some women do find it desirable to attune their cycles to those of the Moon as closely as possible. Women who do feel this attunement are either ovulating at Full and bleeding at Dark, or ovulating at Waxing and bleeding at Waning.\n\nAccording to Luisa Francia in <i>Dragontime</i>, periods in different lunar phases have different characters. Here are her thoughts:\n<table width=\"100%\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"5\" cellpadding=\"5\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Phase</th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Orientation</th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Activities</th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Totem</th>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"20%\">Waxing</td>\n<td>Self</td>\n<td>learning, self-care</td>\n<td>raven</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"20%\">Full</td>\n<td>World</td>\n<td>celebrate, transform</td>\n<td>phoenix</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"20%\">Waning</td>\n<td>World</td>\n<td>create, develop, deepen</td>\n<td>bear</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\" width=\"20%\">Dark</td>\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">Self</td>\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">healing, looking back</td>\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">toad</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody>\n</table>\nAccording to Kisma Stepanich, if you want to try to attune your cycle to that of the Moon, you should work with herbs that decrease flow during the Waxing Moon (herbs will be discussed later), expose yourself to moonlight regularly and even sleep with a nightlight during the Full Moon, and work with herbs that increase flow during the Waning Moon. She also offers the following thoughts comparing the parts of a woman\'s cycle to the lunar cycle, and working to honor those cycles. They are offered as a beginning point for experimentation.\n<ul>\n	<li>Waxing Moon/After Period: this is a time when the body shows the fewest hormonally-induced symptoms; the feeling is youthful and active, like the Maiden. Favored colors are light; clothes are form-fitting and comfortable, or practical; makeup and jewelry are minimal and hair is tied back if long; scents are airy, like lavender, lemon, sandalwood, or mint.</li>\n	<li>Full Moon/Ovulation to early PMS: the mood is sensual and empowered, but physically there is a feeling of fullness from possible swelling or water retention. Favored colors are watery and romantic; clothes are feminine and seductive; makeup tends to roses and shimmer; jewelry is seductive, like anklets; hair is down but \'done\'; scents are fiery or sexual, like carnation, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, or vanilla.</li>\n	<li>Waning Moon/PMS and Start of Period: the mood turns inward, and there is an emphasis on psychic impressions and on banishing unwanted things. Favored colors are reds and other deep colors; clothes are layered, flowing and comfortable; makeup becomes more dramatic or tends toward plum; lots of jewelry, especially spiritual kinds; perfumes include gardenia, heather, myrrh, orange, orris, rose, and violet.</li>\n	<li>Dark Moon/End of Period to Slightly After: This is the deep, still point between cycles, the point of the Dark Goddess. Favored colors are black and nature colors; clothes are dramatic styles; makeup is dark; jewelry tends to pieces with special significance; hair is down and unadorned; perfumes are earthy, like musk, patchouli, cedar, honeysuckle, jasmine, or sage.</li>\n</ul>\n&nbsp;\n<h4><b>Spiritual and Magical Concerns</b></h4>\nFirst of all, the menstrual blood itself is considered to be magical. In some cultures its power is considered to be so strong that it gives great power to any spell; or so strong, on the other hand, that it negates all other powers.\n\nThe journey through the menstrual cycle can be compared to a journey through the Three Worlds: the waxing phase is Celestial, the ovulation phase is Terrestrial, and the bleeding is a trip to the Underworld.\n\nWomen are considered to be unusually psychically open during menstruation, which on one hand lends them power but also means that they benefit by taking more time to themselves, giving extra attention to self-nurturing and purification. (This is not because they are \'unclean,\' as it has been interpreted in some cultures, but because so much energy is drawn to them at this time and is grounded through them.) This is a good time to pay attention to dreams and perform other kinds of divination.\n\nSome women find it helpful to create a special space they can go to during this time, including a blood altar. Here they can keep any special tools, including a jar of diluted blood, a charm bag of special amulets and herbs, and other items honoring the blood: animal totems, red candles, Goddess images, seashells, red stones. Spending extra alone time now to create, read, or meditate helps women feel more balanced throughout the cycle. Gentle forms of movement, like belly dancing and yoga, are also considered to be helpful to both the spirit and the body.\n\nThe blood power is not lost after menopause. In fact, in Native American cultures, menopausal women are considered to be even more powerful because they are holding this energy within themselves rather than releasing it. Elsewhere, the hot flashes that come during menopause are compared to the awakening of the Kundalini, and seen as an opportunity to work with and cultivate this power naturally.\n\nOther cultures have honored the first menstruation and the coming of menopause as special times of power honoring women. It is never too late to celebrate these.\n<h4></h4>\n<h4><b>Fertility Consciousness</b></h4>\nMost women, if they know much about their cycles at all, only know the \'rhythm method\' of counting days between periods. This is NOT adequate! The following discussion of ovulation symptoms is meant to improve your awareness of your body, but while it is better than the rhythm method, it should not replace your other measures for birth and disease control.\n\nOvulation occurs 12-14 days before the beginning of the period. This time frame does not change: what does change is the amount of time between the beginning of the period and the next ovulation. So counting days from the beginning of the period is useless in terms of tracking fertility. Here is a list of symptoms that can accompany ovulation:\n<ul>\n	<li>a small, sharp twinge low and to one side (\"mittelschmerz\")</li>\n	<li>spotting</li>\n	<li>breast tenderness or fullness</li>\n	<li>increased sexual desire</li>\n	<li>lower back pain</li>\n	<li>constipation</li>\n	<li>mood changes</li>\n	<li>food cravings</li>\n	<li>swelling</li>\n	<li>more acute senses</li>\n	<li>oily hair and skin</li>\n	<li>elevated temperature</li>\n	<li>fertile mucus pattern</li>\n</ul>\n&nbsp;\n\nOf these, the last two are the most reliable indicators. Unfortunately it can be hard to track the elevated temperature, which can happen for so many other reasons. Also, temperature has to be taken first thing in the morning without rising from bed; and although higher temperature correlates to ovulation, it can be just before or just after.\n\nVaginal secretions change just before ovulation. Usually, it is more acidic, to protect this opening into your body from germs. This also makes it inhospitable for sperm. However, before and during ovulation, this changes to help the sperm survive. During this time, there is more secretion, and it is thicker; it will be sticky or stretchy when pinched between the fingers.\n<h4></h4>\n<h4><b>Herbs for the Blood Mysteries</b></h4>\nI will not be giving specific herbal treatments here, because I am not qualified to do so. However, you can investigate the books in the bibliography to start learning more about herbal treatments for various issues relating to menstruation, fertility, and so on. Two good general tonics for the female reproductive system are dong quai and raspberry leaf. (Many are the cramps I\'ve chased off with raspberry leaf tea!) These are both easily available at health food stores, as is blue cohosh, which is currently very popular for use during perimenopause.\n\nHere are magical uses of some herbs that you can include in incense, on your altar, in dream pillows, and so on:\n<ul>\n	<li>Apple (for Goddess energy)</li>\n	<li>Cayenne pepper (to control fertility)</li>\n	<li>Chamomile (to make peace with your cycle)</li>\n	<li>Ginger (for the \"spirit of the blood\")</li>\n	<li>Lipped flowers, like orchids (represent the sexual organs)</li>\n	<li>Mistletoe (to claim power; also decreases flow)</li>\n	<li>Mugwort (for \"woman power\" and visions; also works for Crones)</li>\n	<li>Parsley (to strengthen blood)</li>\n	<li>Pomegranate (for Goddess and Underworld energy)</li>\n	<li>Raspberry (to control the cycle)</li>\n	<li>Sage (for sacredness)</li>\n</ul>\n&nbsp;\n\n<b>Resources</b>\n\nFrancia, Luisa. <i>Dragontime</i>\nHoffman, David. <i>The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal</i>\nMcIntyre, Anne. <i>The Complete Woman\'s Herbal</i>\nStepanich, Kisma. <i>Sister Moon Lodge</i>\nWeed, Susun. <i>Healing Wise</i>\n\n* NOTE: Basic biological information has been vetted by my husband, Dr. Timothy McCord, a professor of anatomy and physiology.','Women\'s Mysteries','','inherit','open','open','','100089-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-23 17:32:09','2013-09-24 00:32:09','',100089,'<em><i>By: Julie (Sanatani) McCord</i>\n\n<hr />\n\nIn many cultures, special taboos appear around menstruation and childbirth. Because a woman\'s cycle is often about the same length as the lunar cycle, special ties are acknowledged between women and the Moon',0,'revision','',0),(100246,2,'2013-09-23 17:35:35','2013-09-24 00:35:35','','Ugra Tara','','inherit','open','open','','maa-tara-ugra-tara-2','','','2013-09-23 17:35:35','2013-09-24 00:35:35','',100089,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100247,2,'2013-09-23 17:37:02','2013-09-24 00:37:02','<i>By: Julie (Sanatani) McCord</i>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nIn many cultures special taboos appear around menstruation and childbirth. Because a woman\'s cycle is often about the same length as the lunar cycle, special ties are acknowledged between women and the Moon. Because women bleed each month without taking harm, they are believed to have special powers during the bleeding, and the blood itself is powerfully magical. However, this is taken as either a positive or a negative depending on the culture. One of our objectives in working with the Mysteries is to move toward the positive viewpoint, in order to make this a time of increased power and self-healing.\r\n\r\nMenstruation and childbirth are sometimes used to define the triple aspect of Goddess and woman as follows:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><b>The Maiden</b> is the girl who has just had her first period;\r\n<b></b></li>\r\n	<li><b>The Mother</b> is the bleeding woman who has given birth and/or achieved fulfillment in her chosen career; and\r\n<b></b></li>\r\n	<li><b>The Crone</b> is the woman who has reached menopause.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h4></h4>\r\n<h4><b>Biology<small>*</small></b></h4>\r\nA typical menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. We usually start counting from the first day of the period. During the first half of the cycle, the body produces estrogen. Then an egg is released from one of the ovaries; it travels through the fallopian tube for somewhere between 12 and 36 hours, and it is during this time that we are fertile. The empty egg sac releases progesterone, and the change in hormones signals the uterus to build up a lining called the endometrium. If the egg is not fertilized, then the hormone levels drop and the lining starts to break down; and 12-14 days after ovulation, the period starts, purging the unused lining from the body.\r\n<h4></h4>\r\n<h4><b>Our Cycle and the Moon</b></h4>\r\nSome writers theorize that ideally, we should ovulate at the Full Moon and bleed during the Waning Moon before the Dark Moon. However, if we look at the biology and see that there is always 12-14 days between ovulation and menstruation, we see that this doesn\'t quite work. Still, the comparison of cycles is informative, and some women do find it desirable to attune their cycles to those of the Moon as closely as possible. Women who do feel this attunement are either ovulating at Full and bleeding at Dark, or ovulating at Waxing and bleeding at Waning.\r\n\r\nAccording to Luisa Francia in <i>Dragontime</i>, periods in different lunar phases have different characters. Here are her thoughts:\r\n<table width=\"100%\" border=\"0\" cellspacing=\"5\" cellpadding=\"5\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Phase</th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Orientation</th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Activities</th>\r\n<th style=\"text-align: left;\">Totem</th>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td width=\"20%\">Waxing</td>\r\n<td>Self</td>\r\n<td>learning, self-care</td>\r\n<td>raven</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td width=\"20%\">Full</td>\r\n<td>World</td>\r\n<td>celebrate, transform</td>\r\n<td>phoenix</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td width=\"20%\">Waning</td>\r\n<td>World</td>\r\n<td>create, develop, deepen</td>\r\n<td>bear</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\" width=\"20%\">Dark</td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">Self</td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">healing, looking back</td>\r\n<td style=\"text-align: left;\">toad</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\nAccording to Kisma Stepanich, if you want to try to attune your cycle to that of the Moon, you should work with herbs that decrease flow during the Waxing Moon (herbs will be discussed later), expose yourself to moonlight regularly and even sleep with a nightlight during the Full Moon, and work with herbs that increase flow during the Waning Moon. She also offers the following thoughts comparing the parts of a woman\'s cycle to the lunar cycle, and working to honor those cycles. They are offered as a beginning point for experimentation.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Waxing Moon/After Period: this is a time when the body shows the fewest hormonally-induced symptoms; the feeling is youthful and active, like the Maiden. Favored colors are light; clothes are form-fitting and comfortable, or practical; makeup and jewelry are minimal and hair is tied back if long; scents are airy, like lavender, lemon, sandalwood, or mint.</li>\r\n	<li>Full Moon/Ovulation to early PMS: the mood is sensual and empowered, but physically there is a feeling of fullness from possible swelling or water retention. Favored colors are watery and romantic; clothes are feminine and seductive; makeup tends to roses and shimmer; jewelry is seductive, like anklets; hair is down but \'done\'; scents are fiery or sexual, like carnation, cinnamon, clove, rosemary, or vanilla.</li>\r\n	<li>Waning Moon/PMS and Start of Period: the mood turns inward, and there is an emphasis on psychic impressions and on banishing unwanted things. Favored colors are reds and other deep colors; clothes are layered, flowing and comfortable; makeup becomes more dramatic or tends toward plum; lots of jewelry, especially spiritual kinds; perfumes include gardenia, heather, myrrh, orange, orris, rose, and violet.</li>\r\n	<li>Dark Moon/End of Period to Slightly After: This is the deep, still point between cycles, the point of the Dark Goddess. Favored colors are black and nature colors; clothes are dramatic styles; makeup is dark; jewelry tends to pieces with special significance; hair is down and unadorned; perfumes are earthy, like musk, patchouli, cedar, honeysuckle, jasmine, or sage.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><b>Spiritual and Magical Concerns</b></h4>\r\nFirst of all, the menstrual blood itself is considered to be magical. In some cultures its power is considered to be so strong that it gives great power to any spell; or so strong, on the other hand, that it negates all other powers.\r\n\r\nThe journey through the menstrual cycle can be compared to a journey through the Three Worlds: the waxing phase is Celestial, the ovulation phase is Terrestrial, and the bleeding is a trip to the Underworld.\r\n\r\nWomen are considered to be unusually psychically open during menstruation, which on one hand lends them power but also means that they benefit by taking more time to themselves, giving extra attention to self-nurturing and purification. (This is not because they are \'unclean,\' as it has been interpreted in some cultures, but because so much energy is drawn to them at this time and is grounded through them.) This is a good time to pay attention to dreams and perform other kinds of divination.\r\n\r\nSome women find it helpful to create a special space they can go to during this time, including a blood altar. Here they can keep any special tools, including a jar of diluted blood, a charm bag of special amulets and herbs, and other items honoring the blood: animal totems, red candles, Goddess images, seashells, red stones. Spending extra alone time now to create, read, or meditate helps women feel more balanced throughout the cycle. Gentle forms of movement, like belly dancing and yoga, are also considered to be helpful to both the spirit and the body.\r\n\r\nThe blood power is not lost after menopause. In fact, in Native American cultures, menopausal women are considered to be even more powerful because they are holding this energy within themselves rather than releasing it. Elsewhere, the hot flashes that come during menopause are compared to the awakening of the Kundalini, and seen as an opportunity to work with and cultivate this power naturally.\r\n\r\nOther cultures have honored the first menstruation and the coming of menopause as special times of power honoring women. It is never too late to celebrate these.\r\n<h4></h4>\r\n<h4><b>Fertility Consciousness</b></h4>\r\nMost women, if they know much about their cycles at all, only know the \'rhythm method\' of counting days between periods. This is NOT adequate! The following discussion of ovulation symptoms is meant to improve your awareness of your body, but while it is better than the rhythm method, it should not replace your other measures for birth and disease control.\r\n\r\nOvulation occurs 12-14 days before the beginning of the period. This time frame does not change: what does change is the amount of time between the beginning of the period and the next ovulation. So counting days from the beginning of the period is useless in terms of tracking fertility. Here is a list of symptoms that can accompany ovulation:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>a small, sharp twinge low and to one side (\"mittelschmerz\")</li>\r\n	<li>spotting</li>\r\n	<li>breast tenderness or fullness</li>\r\n	<li>increased sexual desire</li>\r\n	<li>lower back pain</li>\r\n	<li>constipation</li>\r\n	<li>mood changes</li>\r\n	<li>food cravings</li>\r\n	<li>swelling</li>\r\n	<li>more acute senses</li>\r\n	<li>oily hair and skin</li>\r\n	<li>elevated temperature</li>\r\n	<li>fertile mucus pattern</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nOf these, the last two are the most reliable indicators. Unfortunately it can be hard to track the elevated temperature, which can happen for so many other reasons. Also, temperature has to be taken first thing in the morning without rising from bed; and although higher temperature correlates to ovulation, it can be just before or just after.\r\n\r\nVaginal secretions change just before ovulation. Usually, it is more acidic, to protect this opening into your body from germs. This also makes it inhospitable for sperm. However, before and during ovulation, this changes to help the sperm survive. During this time, there is more secretion, and it is thicker; it will be sticky or stretchy when pinched between the fingers.\r\n<h4></h4>\r\n<h4><b>Herbs for the Blood Mysteries</b></h4>\r\nI will not be giving specific herbal treatments here, because I am not qualified to do so. However, you can investigate the books in the bibliography to start learning more about herbal treatments for various issues relating to menstruation, fertility, and so on. Two good general tonics for the female reproductive system are dong quai and raspberry leaf. (Many are the cramps I\'ve chased off with raspberry leaf tea!) These are both easily available at health food stores, as is blue cohosh, which is currently very popular for use during perimenopause.\r\n\r\nHere are magical uses of some herbs that you can include in incense, on your altar, in dream pillows, and so on:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Apple (for Goddess energy)</li>\r\n	<li>Cayenne pepper (to control fertility)</li>\r\n	<li>Chamomile (to make peace with your cycle)</li>\r\n	<li>Ginger (for the \"spirit of the blood\")</li>\r\n	<li>Lipped flowers, like orchids (represent the sexual organs)</li>\r\n	<li>Mistletoe (to claim power; also decreases flow)</li>\r\n	<li>Mugwort (for \"woman power\" and visions; also works for Crones)</li>\r\n	<li>Parsley (to strengthen blood)</li>\r\n	<li>Pomegranate (for Goddess and Underworld energy)</li>\r\n	<li>Raspberry (to control the cycle)</li>\r\n	<li>Sage (for sacredness)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<b>Resources</b>\r\n\r\nFrancia, Luisa. <i>Dragontime</i>\r\nHoffman, David. <i>The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal</i>\r\nMcIntyre, Anne. <i>The Complete Woman\'s Herbal</i>\r\nStepanich, Kisma. <i>Sister Moon Lodge</i>\r\nWeed, Susun. <i>Healing Wise</i>\r\n\r\n* NOTE: Basic biological information has been vetted by my husband, Dr. Timothy McCord, a professor of anatomy and physiology.','Women\'s Mysteries','','inherit','open','open','','100089-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 17:37:02','2013-09-24 00:37:02','',100089,'<i>By: Julie (Sanatani) McCord</i>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nIn many cultures special taboos appear around menstruation and childbirth. Because a woman\'s cycle is often about the same length as the lunar cycle, special ties are acknowledged between women and the Moon.',0,'revision','',0),(100248,2,'2013-09-23 18:18:32','2013-09-24 01:18:32','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\n\n<hr />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre.\n\n<blockquote>One counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries.</blockquote>\n\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">Read more...</a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality: Inspirations from India','','inherit','open','open','','100126-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:18:32','2013-09-24 01:18:32','',100126,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\n\n<hr />\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alex',0,'revision','',0),(100249,2,'2013-09-23 18:14:33','2013-09-24 01:14:33','<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a>  This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre. \r\n\r\nOne counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s  Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries. \r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">Read more...</a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality: Inspirations from India','','inherit','open','open','','100126-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:14:33','2013-09-24 01:14:33','',100126,'<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a>  This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre. \r\n\r\nOne counter-force to manipulative pa',0,'revision','',0),(100250,2,'2013-09-23 18:15:09','2013-09-24 01:15:09','<h4>Inspirations from India</h4>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a>  This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre. \r\n\r\nOne counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s  Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries. \r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">Read more...</a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality','','inherit','open','open','','100126-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:15:09','2013-09-24 01:15:09','',100126,'<h4>Inspirations from India</h4>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a>  This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre. \r\n\r\n',0,'revision','',0),(100251,2,'2013-09-23 18:16:26','2013-09-24 01:16:26','<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a>  This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote>One counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s  Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries.</blockquote> \r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">Read more...</a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality: Inspirations from India','','inherit','open','open','','100126-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:16:26','2013-09-24 01:16:26','',100126,'<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a>  This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote>One counter-force to',0,'revision','',0),(100252,2,'2013-09-23 18:19:14','2013-09-24 01:19:14','','Puja Basket','','inherit','open','open','','dscn1576','','','2013-09-23 18:19:14','2013-09-24 01:19:14','',100126,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100253,2,'2013-09-23 18:22:14','2013-09-24 01:22:14','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandra Alexandre.\r\n\r\n<blockquote>One counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries.</blockquote>\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">Read more...</a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality: Inspirations from India','','inherit','open','open','','100126-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:22:14','2013-09-24 01:22:14','',100126,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality, by Chandr',0,'revision','',0),(100254,2,'2013-09-23 18:23:17','2013-09-24 01:23:17','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality.\r\n\r\n<blockquote>One counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries.</blockquote>\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">Read more...</a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality: Inspirations from India','','inherit','open','open','','100126-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:23:17','2013-09-24 01:23:17','',100126,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality.\r\n\r\n<block',0,'revision','',0),(100255,2,'2013-09-23 18:24:35','2013-09-24 01:24:35','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality.\r\n\r\n<blockquote>One counter-force to manipulative patriarchal identity branding and hierarchal control is the relatively recent development in the modern west of an articulated and engaged Goddess-centered spirituality. Within \"Women\'s Spirituality,\" as the movement is sometimes called, are contained subversive tactics and stances that define spiritual, womanist/feminist, and woman-honoring spaces from inside as well as outside the mainstream. Many are subversive (if not antinomian) because they serve to undermine pathological systems and/or move experience or consciousness beyond specific patriarchal, national, political, and religio-cultural boundaries.</blockquote>\r\n\r\n<strong><a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\"><i>Read more...</I></a></strong>','Exploring a Cross-Cultural Women\'s Spirituality: Inspirations from India','','inherit','open','open','','100126-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:24:35','2013-09-24 01:24:35','',100126,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/She-Is-Everywhere.pdf\">She is Everywhere!</a> This chapter is from Volume 2, An Anthology of Writing in Womanist/Feminist Spirituality.\r\n\r\n<block',0,'revision','',0),(100256,2,'2013-09-23 18:38:51','2013-09-24 01:38:51','\"10 Ananda Maa Kali\".','10 Ananda Maa Kali','','inherit','open','open','','10-ananda-maa-kali','','','2013-09-23 18:38:51','2013-09-24 01:38:51','',0,'\"10 Ananda Maa Kali\".',0,'attachment','audio/mpeg',0),(100257,2,'2013-09-23 18:40:49','2013-09-24 01:40:49','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our tradition teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\n\r\nYou can listen to a version of Ananda Ma <a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/10-Ananda-Maa-Kali.m4a\">here.</a>\r\n\r\n\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Kali Puja for Home Use','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:40:49','2013-09-24 01:40:49','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme',0,'revision','',0),(100258,2,'2013-09-23 18:42:15','2013-09-24 01:42:15','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our tradition teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\n\r\n\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Kali Puja for Home Use','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 18:42:15','2013-09-24 01:42:15','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"MaaUgratara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme',0,'revision','',0),(100259,2,'2013-09-23 20:00:06','2013-09-24 03:00:06','<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"Maa Ugra Tara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supreme Goddess of Indian Hindu tradition. She is multifaceted and universal in appeal; however, understanding Devi, particularly from a western perspective, is frighteningly difficult. This is at least in part because we in the West have traditionally little upon which to base a conception of Goddess, let alone a goddess who is both immanent and transcendent, unitary and multiplex, all-pervasive and immediately powerful.\r\n\r\nHere, by sharing a contemporary ritual that combines eastern and western practice and devotion, I hope to show that a new level of cyclical complexity can be achieved in which the goddess\' symbols inform by connecting to passion that is not containable by country of origin. I believe that ritual has the power to reverberate throughout more than the immediate context and situatedness of subjects and communities. Therefore, rather than judging who and where Devi belongs, perhaps the reciprocity of human kindness can far exceed our expectations; the grand hope being that we can empower women and men alike through worship of Devi to be all of who and what they are, and whatever they may want to be, no matter what their address.\r\n\r\nBefore we delve into the ritual, it is important to consider how we understand Devi, remembering that in Hindu life, as well as in both the sacred and the profane literature, she finds no contradiction in manifesting as intimate mother and transcendent, universal creatrix; virgin and celestial lover; faithful, complacent wife and bloodthirsty, independent huntress. In any of these forms or combinations, she encompasses and transcends Western notions of duality, thereby defying our ability to quantify, qualify or explain her existence in terms we might easily understand by virtue of a dominant worldview. Devi, it would appear, is beyond succinct and simple explanation. She is beyond a monological interpretation.\r\n\r\nIn fact, so great has been her influence in popular culture throughout the ages that borders have never contained her. From Parvati to Kali, Shasthi to Sarasvati, new versions of goddess, new reasons for her existence, and even newer forms are constantly appearing in India and abroad. She has historically crossed with trade routes and migrations into neighboring lands, becoming a powerful and revered deity in her newly chosen homeland, wherever that might be. For example, in both Tibetan and Nepali Buddhist contexts, the Indian Kali and Chinnamasta early on became Tara and Vajrayogini, respectively. Today, Devi is beginning to find recognition across oceans in the minds and hearts of those located in more distant foreign lands, most notably North America, Australia, and Europe.\r\n\r\nHere in the United States, She is inspiring a (r)evolution of worship and is now assuming revised, context-specific meanings and alternative significances worked through the vehicles of individual bodies, minds and hearts. From the inside out, coming to us in dreams, meditations and through the channels of sacred spaces, the goddess\' archetypal symbols are lifting us through and back into ourselves. She flies through time and space into our consciousness and refuses to be ignored. It would seem that our very souls are calling her to emerge...and she is heeding the call!\r\n\r\nEspecially for those seeking to awaken the intensity of the Divine Feminine in lands that have so culturally and spiritually denied Her, the presence of a goddess who manifests in as many forms and guises as does Devi seems more than understandable. In particular, Devi seems to move westerners (a huge proportion of whom are women and those marginalized in their spirituality). Since many are called by the fierce forms of Goddess because of what She inspires, we at SHARANYA honor Devi as Kali, the fierce most divine embodiment of creation, preservation, and destruction.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Ritual for the Goddess as Kali: Kali Puja (Worship)</strong>\r\n\r\nPoignant and powerful, I believe that the fierce Hindu goddesses, and the Dark Mother more generally, are appearing to westerners in particular so that we may learn from her and in turn honor her for teaching, healing and working with us. As Rita Gross has suggested regarding devi, She can be a powerful resource to westerners reconceptualizing and reclaiming Goddess. Her transformative power and draw in the west is keenly felt, even though the debate still ensues over who honors her, how she is honored outside of her native context, why feminists (and others) in the west are drawn to her, what she means to those of \"foreign\" origin, where she serves best and most, and when her call may be answered.\r\n\r\nWith the ancient presence of the Goddess, of Devi, as found today throughout the world and acknowledging of her roots within indigenous traditions of India as well as what is usually regarded as the more rigidly patriarchal Sanskritic brahmanical ones, I honor Kali from my place as a western feminist dedicated to the goddess because she liberates me, inspires me and has in my own life been a vehicle for transformation. I offer this worship to continue debate and open an opportunity to pray for continued transformation of goddesses, women, peoples, and the planet. I bring traditions of East and West together here with the hope of diffusing boundaries so that consciousness can be attuned to current actualities of goddess worship as transformational, the presence of the Divine felt within a concept of universal humanness, and hearts surrounded by the grace of the divine as most acceptable to the individual in a way that reflects and suggests ramifications for the collective. Most broadly, I attempt to bring together elements of western, earth-based practice and Eastern, Sakta Tantrick worship methodologies and verses in order to honor Goddess in whatever guise She appears to those participating in this worship. At SHARANYA, this usually means that we work with Kali and Her various manifestations, still acknowledging the ties She has all over the globe.\r\n\r\nThis ritual is presented in order to facilitate the spiritual seeker\'s personal exploration into sadhana (spiritual practice), because ritual, in my opinion, can often be a powerful means for opening to another level of human potential and personal awareness. Worship is an intensely private affair even when done among others, and I recommend not only reading this, but certainly trying it. Such an endeavor, I believe, can promote overall clarity and help to develop a greater sense of relationship to the community of the divine, both during the ritual itself and in general day-to-day realities. When we at SHARANYA create space for the public to join us in this ceremony, we consider ourselves merely guides for the journey into Her embrace.\r\n\r\nThe following then is an outline for your honoring of the Divine Mother, Goddess Kali, including Sanskrit mantras. Please understand that whenever/wherever you are uncomfortable with the Sanskrit language, you may use the English translation as given, or come up with your own words based on the meanings suggested. These words of worship, however, need to be revered and respected, since they are millennia old and have multiple layers of meaning that will only be revealed as a part of your own unfolding process and/or through work with a guru/teacher. Again, this is all and only presented in order to facilitate your personal exploration. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, any worship such as this should be predicated on a foundation inclusive of meditation, study, and intense contemplation of the deity to be honored – both in historical and cultural context as well as by undertaking to reveal what the deity means to you as an individual in communion with the spiritual essence of her. Worship, after all, is an intensely private affair, even when done among others. The worship as presented here is based on both western and eastern styles.\r\n\r\nIn beginning any ritual, our tradition teaches that one must prepare a space appropriate to the work to be done, and setting up the worship area in personally meaningful ways may be the very most important piece. To this I would suggest that one bring all the love, joy, and creativity one has to offer, focusing that sentiment on the altar and worship area as a temporary home for the divine. The process of calling the deity from one\'s heart into the image or statue you provide for worship takes one to the very essence of devotion.\r\n\r\nIn order for this specific ritual to be practiced, basic items to have within the worship space include: pure spring water, salt, uncooked rice, red flowers (flowers only, no stems) placed on a platter/tray or in a basket, flowers of one’s choice in a vase, sweets (Maa Kali, for example, loves chocolate and anything delightful as long as the offerings do not contain cow-derived products such as gelatin, because the cow is symbolic of her very body), red wine (or substitute), chemical-free, natural tobacco, a small round fruit (size based upon the number of individuals doing the worship; i.e., for one or two persons, a grapefruit; for up to five or so, a cantaloupe; for up to ten, a honeydew melon; for more, a watermelon), one votive candle (green or white), honey, colored paper and markers for writing a prayer, food to share, and favorite ritual objects arranged as pleasing to the senses.\r\n\r\nAs initiation of the process, take a few minutes to meditate on the divine as Kali, or as any other Dark Goddess of choice, focusing heart and mind on her presence and the overall intention of this ritual, which is to accept the Dark Goddess’ blessings and have her illuminate obstacles to spiritual growth by confronting fear and cutting through that which is unnecessary. Then, as ready, begin to intone or chant \"Jai Maa!\" which means Victory to the Divine Mother, or as we sometimes say, \"Hallelujah, Maa!\" Drums, rattles, clapping of hands, and other instruments are often used to call upon and bring spirited fun to this simple way of honoring Goddess. The ritual ensues...\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\nOne may follow any desired format or one already in use from one’s own spiritual path to do this, making sure to purify the objects and the surrounding space with salt water that you have blessed. Then, taking handfuls of rice, draw on the seat in front of you (or in the center of the circle), a triangle whose point faces the image or representation of the goddess that has been installed or temporarily set up. While doing so, read (or have someone else read) the following invocation:\r\n<blockquote>OM ADHARA SAKTAYE NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ahd-hah-rah shahk-tah-yay nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(Primordial Energy of the Goddess, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KURMMAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM koor-mah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which holds up all Existence, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM ANANTAYA NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM ah-nan-tah-yah nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(That which is She Infinite, we bow to you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM PRTHIVYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM pr-theev-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(The glory of Mother as Earth, we bow to you)</em></blockquote>\r\nThen invoke the ten directions, specifically adding the following mantra after the directions are called:\r\n<blockquote>OM AIM HRIM KLIM CAMUNDAYAI VICCE\r\npronunciation: AUM eye-m hreem kleem chah-moon-dah-yai veech-chay\r\n<em>(Infinite awareness knows the One, the Many and She who unites them, transforms them, and makes them whole)</em></blockquote>\r\nNext, a devotional invocation to the Eight Mothers (Asta Matrikas) as given in the Agni Purana is made. Call upon these guides as Brahmani, Mahesvari, Kaumari, Vaisnavi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamunda and Mahalaksmi. (Other versions of these deities are found in other texts.) You may use my invocation, if you\'d like.\r\n\r\nWith the naming of each goddess, place a red flower around the rice triangle you have just made, beginning at the point and going clockwise. Then, invoke the four elements, making sure to include their representations as Avani (Earth), Jalam (Water), Agni (Fire), and Vayu (Air). One may also include Akasa (Spirit/Ether) to complete the mahabhutas, or gross elements.\r\n\r\nNow, the process of expressing a yearning for Kali truly manifests. Begin by centering with focused breath on the heart, and then call Her forth:\r\n<blockquote>OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH\r\npronunciation: AUM kreem kahl-yai nah-mah-hah\r\n<em>(We call and bow to Kali, She who is all Life, with honor and respect)</em>\r\n\r\nOM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem para-mesh-vah-ree kah-lee-kay svah-hah\r\n<em>(Great Goddess Kali, by the power of your all-pervading nature and supreme perfection, She who is the mystery of life, death, and regeneration, we are One with you)</em>\r\n\r\nOM KALI KALI MAHAKALI KALIKE PAPAHARINI DHARMARTHAMOKSADE DEVI NARAYANI NAMO-STUTTE\r\npronunciation: AUM kah-lee kah-lee maHA-kah-lee kah-lee-kay pah-pah-har-ee-nee dhar-mar-ta-mok-shah-day day-vee nah-rah-yah-nee nah-mo stoo-tay\r\n<em>(Greatest of All, Kali, Great Goddess who is the revealer of Truth, Kali who is with us in life, make our path one of peace and virtue, bring us your strength for liberation, for self-awareness, for the awakening of our spirit, our planetand all beings, Kali, you who are All, we bow to you!)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Prana Pratistha</strong>\r\n\r\nHere, our life breath is connected to the Mother, imbuing her with our energies for the purposes of this ritual. Chant, honoring her:\r\n<blockquote>OM HRIM SRIM KRIM PARAMESVARI KALIKE SVAHA PRANA IHA PRANAH\r\npronunciation: AUM hreem shreem kreem pah-rah-mesh-vah-ree kali-kay svah-hah PRAH-nah EE-hah PRAH-nah-hah\r\n<em>(Om Creation, Dissolution, Transformation – the names of the Great Goddess, we are with the Ultimate, for you are the life of all Life)</em></blockquote>\r\nThis is done three times, and after each mantra is said, release a deep breath – HA – into the central space, focusing on the altar and representations/images of Kali. Do this slowly and with intention.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purification and Puspañjali (flower offering)</strong>\r\n\r\nTake either the salt water or an essential oil of choice, and anoint the third-eye (ajña cakra) with the ring finger of the right hand, continuing to pass the oil around the circle, if applicable. Next, take the basket of red flowers and bless them, saying:\r\n<blockquote>OM PUSPA PUSPA MAHA PUSPA SUPUSPA PUSPA SAMBHAVE PUSPA CAYAVAKIRNE CA HUM PHAT SVAHA\r\npronunciation: AUM PUSH-pah PUSH-pah maHA PUSH-pah soo-PUSH-pah PUSH-pah SAHM-bha-vay PUSH-pah cha-yah-vah-keer-nay cha hoom paht sva-hah\r\n<em>(Flowers, flowers, great flowers, beautifully heaped and everywhere among us, take away our small selves, bless us, purify us, we are one with the Ultimate All)</em></blockquote>\r\nPass around the flowers, making sure everyone present has received one. The flower will accompany the prayer/offering later in the ceremony. Also pass around paper and writing implements.\r\n\r\n<!--nextpage-->\r\n\r\n<strong>Kali Gayatri</strong>\r\n\r\nThis sacred mantra asks for the blessings of Kali. Recite three times:\r\n<blockquote>OM MAHA KALYAI CA VIDMAHE SMASANA VASINYAI CA DHIMAHI TANNO KALI PRACHODAYAT\r\npronunciation: AUM ma-HA kalyai cha vid-ma-hey shma-shah-nah vah-sin-yai cha dhee-mah-hee tahn-no kah-lee pruh-cho-duh-yaht\r\n<em>(Om Great Goddess Kali, the One, She who resides in the Ocean of Life and in the Cremation Grounds that dissolve the world, we concentrate our energies on you, may you grant us boons and blessings)</em></blockquote>\r\n<strong>Meditation</strong>\r\n\r\nThis is the time to focus on the ritual intention and give thanks for all that Kali has brought to one’s life, remembering that what we deem both good and bad all serve Her higher purpose. Utilize the mantra om, silence, or a personal meditation/ visualization to help focus the mind and gain clarity on any issue or difficult situation that immediately comes to awareness. After several minutes, write down a prayer. Use of a Tibetan \"singing\" bowl or a bell to begin/end the meditation may help shift the energy of the work. One may choose to repeat the Kali Gayatri again at this point.\r\n\r\n<strong>Consecration</strong>\r\n\r\nNext, the sacred substances are passed around to cleanse, purify and open the senses to the divine will. These substances are symbolic of the pañcha makaras, the five \"m’s\" of the Tantras: matsya (fish), mamsa (meat), mudra (the exact nature of this substance is unknown, but it is thought to be parched grain from which altered states arise upon consumption), madya (liquor/wine) and maithuna (sexual intercourse). In the Kamakhya Tantra, it says the following:\r\n<blockquote>\"The true devotee should worship the Mother of the Universe with liquor, fish, meat, cereal and copulation.\"</blockquote>\r\nSome Tantrick schools, mostly those of dakshinachara (right-hand) path (cf. vamachara, or left-hand path), have assigned alternative meanings to these. The wine, meat, fish, and so on are replaced with coconut water, goat cheese, ginger, rice and honey. One may wish to ascertain the deeper meaning of this part of the ritual by reading of the Tantrick tradition or by intuitively working with the energies of these substances. For the purposes of this ritual, the five substances are tobacco, beer, wine, honey, and a prayer for peace and union.\r\n\r\nSprinkle salt water over the tobacco, the wine, and other substances to purify and bless them. Take some of the tobacco first (and pass around). Smell it, inhaling deeply and/or one may choose to smoke it, rolling a ritual \"cigarette.\" Next the wine, drinking three times around the circle if time allows, followed by the beer and honey. Then, prayers may be folded (with tobacco inside if it wasn’t smoked already) and along with the red flower, anointed with red vermilion or simply touched to the forehead as an acknowledgement of gratitude.\r\n\r\nChant and Worship The prayers are then offered with a chant – one can use those offered below, which were created for this purpose; or use others that come from the heart and speak to the offering:\r\n<blockquote>Cerridwyn, Om Kali, Lilith we sing to you;\r\nBlack Goddess, Dark Mother\r\nTake in our love for you!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nOm Kali, Kali! Om Kali, Kali!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\nNamostute, namostute, namo!\r\n\r\nor:\r\n\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nAnanda Ma Ananda Ma Kali\r\nOm Kali Ma!</blockquote>\r\n\r\n\r\nWhile the chant is being sung in repetition, participants come forward one-by-one, bowing before the altar in prostration, with forehead on the floor between the palms (this is recommended for the offering). Each person takes as long as necessary– this is meant as a private time with Kali, or with any Dark Goddess to whom one wishes to pray.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sacrifice (Boli)</strong>\r\n\r\nOnce the chanting is finished and all have offered their prayers, recognition of the things humanity (either individually or collectively) must sacrifice on the path is solidified with the fruit bought for this purpose. The fruit is also a symbol of renunciation, as we may at times consciously choose to give up the fruits of our labors for something greater. Take the fruit and with a marker, write on it something to be given up at this moment. (There is no need for the literal writing to appear clearly...it is the action that solidifies the intention.) When this is done, take a ritual knife and cut open the fruit. Place one-half face down, and in the other half, work into the flesh a votive candle. Light the candle and place any remaining red flowers alongside it, finally resting the fruit on or near the altar. Again, recitation of the mantras for welcoming Kali may be done.\r\n\r\n<strong>Union Prayer, Prasad, Blessings and Opening of Circle</strong>\r\n\r\nFinally, the culmination of the ritual sends hope out into the universe and blesses the food (prasad) for sharing with others. This can be done while chanting an ancient Vedic prayer for the peace that comes with wholeness and the search for truth:\r\n<blockquote>OM ASATO MA SAD GAMAYA\r\nTAMASO MA JYOTIR GAMAYA\r\nMRITYOR MA AMRITAM GAMAYA\r\n<em>(From untruth to truth, from darkness to light, from death to immortality, lead us)</em></blockquote>\r\nAny final blessings may be offered around the circle with the passing and sharing of the honey, and a final chant of choice may be sung as the circle is opened and the food is shared. One may then thank the spirits who have been engaged for the ritual, and/or one may agree that with the blowing out of the final candle, they dissipate at their will. Feasting and sharing of personal experience can continue as the community of participants sees fit.\r\n\r\nThe entire ritual should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. If you have any questions about this worship or other forms of puja, please contact one of our Rashani, or me, Chandra Alexandre, directly. We will be happy to assist you in Her service.\r\n\r\n<em><strong>Please give appropriate credit if publicly performing this ritual or if printing material for distribution. Thank you!</strong> </em>Finally, feel free to send your feedback – we’d love to hear from you. And do come join us in future for a puja!\r\n\r\n<strong>Blessings, and Sa\'ham!</strong>','Kali Puja for Home Use','','inherit','open','open','','100101-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 20:00:06','2013-09-24 03:00:06','',100101,'<em>By: Chandra Alexandre</em>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-100102 imgborder\" alt=\"Maa Ugra Tara\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MaaUgratara.jpg\" />\r\n\r\n<em>Devi</em>, as She is called in Sanskrit, is the supre',0,'revision','',0),(100260,2,'2013-09-23 20:02:48','2013-09-24 03:02:48','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379978974431.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <I>yoni tattva</I>, the essence of the Divine Female.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali,  Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa! \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"SHARANYA&#039;s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others. \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]  \r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">Yoni Puja (2006 & 2007)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 20:02:48','2013-09-24 03:02:48','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379978974431.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/ev',0,'revision','',0),(100261,2,'2013-09-23 20:08:33','2013-09-24 03:08:33','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379992070708.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <I>yoni tattva</I>, the essence of the Divine Female.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali,  Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa! \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"SHARANYA&#039;s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others. \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]  \r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">Yoni Puja (2006 & 2007)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 20:08:33','2013-09-24 03:08:33','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379992070708.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/ev',0,'revision','',0),(100262,2,'2013-09-23 20:16:29','2013-09-24 03:16:29','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379992070708.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <I>yoni tattva</I>, the essence of the Divine Female.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali,  Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa! \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" alt=\"SHARANYA&#039;s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others. \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Sunday, June 14, 2009, community gathered in a devotional and celebratory festival honoring Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness. We came together during the auspicious time of abundance known as Ambubachi Mela in the cycle of life, death and rebirth. This is the time when <I>Devi</I>, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]  \r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">Yoni Puja (2006 & 2007)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIn February of 2006, SHARANYA offered our first Yoni Puja dedicated to the Divine Female, Divine Feminine, Gaia, Women, and our sacred bodies. Community members built a yoni gateway through which ritual participants passed, complete with a pink rose-filled clitoris. Everyone danced in honor of the Mystery, inclusive of the Sacred Male, and all received a special darshan. \r\n\r\nAgain in June of 2007, we joined in the festival of Devi for the sacred honoring of the Female through Yoni Puja, and we have continued the tradition every year since. \r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 20:16:29','2013-09-24 03:16:29','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379992070708.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/ev',0,'revision','',0),(100263,2,'2013-09-23 20:56:20','2013-09-24 03:56:20','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379992070708.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <i>yoni tattva</i>, the essence of the Divine Female.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali, Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Sunday, June 14, 2009, community gathered in a devotional and celebratory festival honoring Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness. We came together during the auspicious time of abundance known as Ambubachi Mela in the cycle of life, death and rebirth. This is the time when <i>Devi</i>, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">First Annual Yoni Puja (2006)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIn February of 2006, SHARANYA offered our first Yoni Puja dedicated to the Divine Female, Divine Feminine, Gaia, Women, and our sacred bodies. Community members built a beautiful yoni gateway through which ritual participants passed, complete with a pink rose-filled clitoris-like topping. Everyone danced in honor of the Mystery, inclusive of the Sacred Male, and all received a special darshan.\r\n\r\nAgain in June of 2007, we joined in the festival of Devi to honor the Sacred Female through Yoni Puja, and we have continued the tradition every year since at the time of Solstice in correspondence with <a title=\"Festivals\" href=\"http://sharanya.org/events/festivals/\">Ambubachi Mela </a>in India.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 20:56:20','2013-09-24 03:56:20','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1379992070708.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/',0,'revision','',0),(100264,2,'2013-09-23 21:04:42','2013-09-24 04:04:42','Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an opportunity to discover Her mysteries more deeply and sweetly. Each voyage invites the devotee to delve deeper into her or his spiritual path, expand horizons, learn first-hand about living Goddess traditions and experience the history and culture of the birthplace of Tantra.\r\n\r\nIf you join us, you will access and visit temples and spiritual sites otherwise hard to reach, gaining entrance to a world often off-limits to foreign visitors. Come with us to meet priests, tantrics, women adepts, and spiritual seekers devoted to the Divine Mother!\r\n<h2><a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\">Devotees in the News!</a></h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_100156\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"558\"]<a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100156 imgborder \" alt=\"India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News.jpg\" width=\"558\" height=\"314\" /></a> Blessings of the Divine Mother Kamakhya at her temple outside of Guwahti in Assam.[/caption]','Pilgrimage','','inherit','open','open','','99136-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:04:42','2013-09-24 04:04:42','',99136,'Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an oppor',0,'revision','',0),(100265,2,'2013-09-23 21:06:24','2013-09-24 04:06:24','We are just back from our annual pilgrimage to the sacred goddess sites of Tantrick India. While many friends and loved ones think us crazy for visiting during the hottest time of year, we can\'t resist India in the summertime! The reason for our voyage during Summer Solstice is the great Ambubachi Mela, or festival of the Divine Mother\'s Sacred Water. The festival is held at Kamakhya, a famous pilgrimage site for Hindus located just outside of Guwahati, the capital of Assam, in the northeast region of India. Primarily important to Shaktas, the site functions as the most important Shakta pitha, or <i>sacred seat</i> of the goddess for devotees (although you will find many other Hindu traditions represented at the festival).\n\nAcross India, fifty-one sacred pilgrimage sites are scattered across the land; however, the most sacred for Shaktas is Kamakhya. Can you guess why? The mandir, or sacred temple, to which pilgrims and devotees come to worship is situated on a beautiful hill overlooking the Brahmaputra river and the green lushness of Assam\'s tea plantations and jungles. It is here, the puranas (sacred texts) tell us, that the yoni (vulva or womb) of Devi (Goddess) fell to Earth.\n\nAt Kamakhya Mandir during a dark moon phase occurring once during the equivalent of our solar calendar year, usually corresponding with Solstice, devi\'s yoni is believed to release menstrual blood. The celebration and honoring during this time is known as Ambubachi. Annually drawing over 40,000 devotees primarily from eastern India, Ambubachi is at once a spiritual gathering and a celebration of connection to the fundamental life mysteries, bringing together women\'s bodies and Earth body in sacred celebration. Now you know why we bother...and perhaps sometime, you\'ll join us!\n\nTo imagine what this festival is like and how we honor Maa, you\'ll have to close your eyes. Imagine yourself descending a very steep staircase into the center of the Earth. The walls are dark and moist, the heat of the worshipers\' candles and the earth\'s springs creating a living sweat inside the small sanctum sanctorum, known in India as the <i>garbhagriha</i>, or place where the holy of holies resides. This holy of holies is none other than the yoni of the Goddess, literally a vulva-shaped stone (about the size of a beach ball) in the ground that has been honored as such in all likelihood since pre-Vedic times. The stone is worn down with the centuries of devotees\' adoration, and a spring provides a pool of water in which it rests. She is at the center, a <i>bindu</i> or cosmic center contained within the borders of a carved yantra. As you approach, get down on your knees and touch the stone with your right hand. Now, touch the water surrounding Her and bless yourself. Take away some of the flowers you have offered as a sacred souvenir.\n\nKnow that no one may look upon Her directly--all who visit look upon and touch Her through a dressing of red cloth and flowers. Out of respect, the priests who are Her guardians even perform the requisite bath and other initial rites blindfolded. But you and the other devotees on this day have experienced much beyond the seen world. Take it all in, and know you can come back any time you wish. Open your eyes and bring the worlds together. Let us know what She has gifted you with today!','Devi\'s Yoni: The Divine Mother Kamakhya','','inherit','open','open','','99032-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:06:24','2013-09-24 04:06:24','',99032,'We are just back from our annual pilgrimage to the sacred goddess sites of Tantrick India. While many friends and loved ones think us crazy for visiting during the hottest time of year, we can\'t resist India in the summertime! The reason for our voyage du',0,'revision','',0),(100266,2,'2013-09-23 21:06:50','2013-09-24 04:06:50','We are just back from our annual pilgrimage to the sacred goddess sites of Tantrick India. While many friends and loved ones think us crazy for visiting during the hottest time of year, we can\'t resist India in the summertime! The reason for our voyage during Summer Solstice is the great Ambubachi Mela, or festival of the Divine Mother\'s Sacred Water. The festival is held at Kamakhya, a famous pilgrimage site for Hindus located just outside of Guwahati, the capital of Assam, in the northeast region of India. Primarily important to Shaktas, the site functions as the most important Shakta pitha, or <i>sacred seat</i> of the goddess for devotees (although you will find many other Hindu traditions represented at the festival).\r\n\r\nAcross India, fifty-one sacred pilgrimage sites are scattered across the land; however, the most sacred for Shaktas is Kamakhya. Can you guess why? The mandir, or sacred temple, to which pilgrims and devotees come to worship is situated on a beautiful hill overlooking the Brahmaputra river and the green lushness of Assam\'s tea plantations and jungles. It is here, the puranas (sacred texts) tell us, that the yoni (vulva or womb) of Devi (Goddess) fell to Earth.\r\n\r\nAt Kamakhya Mandir during a dark moon phase occurring once during the equivalent of our solar calendar year, usually corresponding with Solstice, devi\'s yoni is believed to release menstrual blood. The celebration and honoring during this time is known as Ambubachi. Annually drawing over 40,000 devotees primarily from eastern India, Ambubachi is at once a spiritual gathering and a celebration of connection to the fundamental life mysteries, bringing together women\'s bodies and Earth body in sacred celebration. Now you know why we bother...and perhaps sometime, you\'ll join us!\r\n\r\nTo imagine what this festival is like and how we honor Maa, you\'ll have to close your eyes. Imagine yourself descending a very steep staircase into the center of the Earth. The walls are dark and moist, the heat of the worshipers\' candles and the earth\'s springs creating a living sweat inside the small sanctum sanctorum, known in India as the <i>garbhagriha</i>, or place where the holy of holies resides. This holy of holies is none other than the yoni of the Goddess, literally a vulva-shaped stone (about the size of a beach ball) in the ground that has been honored as such in all likelihood since pre-Vedic times. The stone is worn down with the centuries of devotees\' adoration, and a spring provides a pool of water in which it rests. She is at the center, a <i>bindu</i> or cosmic center contained within the borders of a carved yantra. As you approach, get down on your knees and touch the stone with your right hand. Now, touch the water surrounding Her and bless yourself. Take away some of the flowers you have offered as a sacred souvenir.\r\n\r\nKnow that no one may look upon Her directly--all who visit look upon and touch Her through a dressing of red cloth and flowers. Out of respect, the priests who are Her guardians even perform the requisite bath and other initial rites blindfolded. But you and the other devotees on this day have experienced much beyond the seen world. Take it all in, and know you can come back any time you wish. Open your eyes and bring the worlds together. Let us know what She has gifted you with today!','Devi\'s Yoni: The Divine Mother Kamakhya','','inherit','open','open','','99032-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:06:50','2013-09-24 04:06:50','',99032,'We are just back from our annual pilgrimage to the sacred goddess sites of Tantrick India. While many friends and loved ones think us crazy for visiting during the hottest time of year, we can\'t resist India in the summertime! The reason for our voyage du',0,'revision','',0),(100267,2,'2013-09-23 21:13:27','2013-09-24 04:13:27','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam. The puja date for 2013 is November 2nd.\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas through image and song:\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:13:27','2013-09-24 04:13:27','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100268,2,'2013-09-23 21:18:54','2013-09-24 04:18:54','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.<br><br>\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.<br><br>\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam. The puja date for 2013 is November 2nd.\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas through image and song:\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:18:54','2013-09-24 04:18:54','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100269,2,'2013-09-23 21:33:35','2013-09-24 04:33:35','<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100275 imgborder alignnone\" alt=\"Yoni Puja 2009\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"375\" /></a>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well. I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors.\n\nI think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My <i>sankalpa</i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments.\n\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there. <b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:33:35','2013-09-24 04:33:35','',99043,'<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100275 imgborder alignnone\" alt=\"Yoni Puja 2009\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\" width=\"45',0,'revision','',0),(100270,2,'2013-09-23 21:24:14','2013-09-24 04:24:14','','Yoni Puja 2009','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_0011-2','','','2013-09-23 21:24:14','2013-09-24 04:24:14','',99043,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100271,2,'2013-09-23 21:24:58','2013-09-24 04:24:58','<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009Altar.jpg\"><center> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well.</blockquote> <img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\">I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors . . . <img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIII.jpg\" align=\"left\">\r\n\r\n<blockquote>I think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My </i>sankalpa<i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments. \r\n\r\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there.</blockquote> \r\n\r\n<b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja</center> \r\n','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:24:58','2013-09-24 04:24:58','',99043,'<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009Altar.jpg\"><center> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful ',0,'revision','',0),(100272,2,'2013-09-23 21:26:45','2013-09-24 04:26:45','<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\"> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well. I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors . . . <img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIII.jpg\" align=\"left\">\r\n\r\nI think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My </i>sankalpa<i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments. \r\n\r\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there.</blockquote> \r\n\r\n<b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja</center> \r\n','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:26:45','2013-09-24 04:26:45','',99043,'<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\"> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very p',0,'revision','',0),(100273,2,'2013-09-23 21:27:27','2013-09-24 04:27:27','<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\"> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well. I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors.\r\n \r\nI think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My </i>sankalpa<i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments. \r\n\r\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there.</blockquote> \r\n\r\n<b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja</center> \r\n','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:27:27','2013-09-24 04:27:27','',99043,'<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\"> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very p',0,'revision','',0),(100274,2,'2013-09-23 21:28:29','2013-09-24 04:28:29','<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\"> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well. I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors.\r\n \r\nI think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My <i>sankalpa</i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments. \r\n\r\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there. <b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja</blockquote> \r\n','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:28:29','2013-09-24 04:28:29','',99043,'<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/YoniPuja2009AltarIV.jpg\" align=\"right\"> <blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very p',0,'revision','',0),(100275,2,'2013-09-23 21:30:41','2013-09-24 04:30:41','','Yoni Puja 2009 Removal of Curses','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_0102-2','','','2013-09-23 21:30:41','2013-09-24 04:30:41','',99043,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100276,2,'2013-09-23 21:33:41','2013-09-24 04:33:41','<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100275 imgborder alignnone\" alt=\"Yoni Puja 2009\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\nNot having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well. I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors.\r\n\r\nI think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My <i>sankalpa</i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments.\r\n\r\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there. <b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:33:41','2013-09-24 04:33:41','',99043,'<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100275 imgborder alignnone\" alt=\"Yoni Puja 2009\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\" width=\"45',0,'revision','',0),(100277,2,'2013-09-23 21:34:46','2013-09-24 04:34:46','<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100275 imgborder alignnone\" alt=\"Yoni Puja 2009\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\" width=\"450\" height=\"375\" /></a>\r\n\r\n<blockquote>Not having done it before, I was not sure what to expect, and went into Yoni Puja pretty much as The Fool. Putting the yoni altar together was very powerful for me, especially as I had been in a pretty bad mood and not feeling very well. I\'d gotten my period that day, and the past several months they\'ve been a bit rocky, if not extremely difficult. I\'m doing things to manage it, but this is all part of the Change. I often think of my mother now, and her experiences at my age. I wish she had been able to come to Yoni Puja, and I was happy when she showed up with the ancestors.\r\n\r\nI think mainly I found this puja to be very loving and accepting, especially in a self-love and self-acceptance way. My <i>sankalpa</i> (sacred intention) for the ritual was forgiveness, of myself and others, and I have been surprised (and somewhat dismayed) at how much I need to forgive, mainly in myself. I have been feeling tested a lot, as I have experienced a real uptick in noticing my own negative self talk, and negative thoughts about others, and yet continually making the choice to let those illusions go...to accept the feelings and release the judgments.\r\n\r\nIt\'s been quite an awakening and a real challenge the past few days, although I feel very protected and loved by Maa through this. Sad, vulnerable, somewhat lonely, but the forgiveness and love I need from myself are definitely there. <b>- Jayada</b>, on her first Yoni Puja</blockquote>','Yoni Puja: Celebrating Goddess, Women, Creation & The Feminine','','inherit','open','open','','99043-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:34:46','2013-09-24 04:34:46','',99043,'<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100275 imgborder alignnone\" alt=\"Yoni Puja 2009\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/DSC_0102-e1379997138201.jpg\" width=\"45',0,'revision','',0),(100278,2,'2013-09-23 21:38:41','2013-09-24 04:38:41','','Kamakhya 2008','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_0895','','','2013-09-23 21:38:41','2013-09-24 04:38:41','',99032,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100279,2,'2013-09-23 21:47:30','2013-09-24 04:47:30','Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an opportunity to discover Her mysteries more deeply and sweetly. Each voyage invites the devotee to delve deeper into her or his spiritual path, expand horizons, learn first-hand about living Goddess traditions and experience the history and culture of the birthplace of Tantra.\r\n\r\nIf you join us, you will access and visit temples and spiritual sites otherwise hard to reach, gaining entrance to a world often off-limits to foreign visitors. Come with us to meet priests, tantrics, women adepts, and spiritual seekers devoted to the Divine Mother!\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"20\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h2><a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\">Devotees in the News!</a></h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_100156\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"558\"]<a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100156 imgborder \" alt=\"India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News.jpg\" width=\"558\" height=\"314\" /></a> Blessings of the Divine Mother Kamakhya at her temple outside of Guwahti in Assam.[/caption]','Pilgrimage','','inherit','open','open','','99136-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:47:30','2013-09-24 04:47:30','',99136,'Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an oppor',0,'revision','',0),(100280,2,'2013-09-23 21:48:19','2013-09-24 04:48:19','Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an opportunity to discover Her mysteries more deeply and sweetly. Each voyage invites the devotee to delve deeper into her or his spiritual path, expand horizons, learn first-hand about living Goddess traditions and experience the history and culture of the birthplace of Tantra.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIf you join us, you will access and visit temples and spiritual sites otherwise hard to reach, gaining entrance to a world often off-limits to foreign visitors. Come with us to meet priests, tantrics, women adepts, and spiritual seekers devoted to the Divine Mother!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"20\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h2><a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\">Devotees in the News!</a></h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_100156\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"558\"]<a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100156 imgborder \" alt=\"India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News.jpg\" width=\"558\" height=\"314\" /></a> Blessings of the Divine Mother Kamakhya at her temple outside of Guwahti in Assam.[/caption]','Pilgrimage','','inherit','open','open','','99136-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:48:19','2013-09-24 04:48:19','',99136,'Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an oppor',0,'revision','',0),(100281,2,'2013-09-23 21:50:55','2013-09-24 04:50:55','<blockquote>You are almost through an intense period of waiting. The learnings of the recent past are adequately fermented and are now ready to issue forth a great elixir; you are almost ready to bring into creation a great amrita, that sacred substance of moon juice ambrosia so treasured by Goddess. Remember to breathe. Look inside. Are you impatient for an outcome? If so, relax and ask yourself if you will be able to responsibly handle whatever happens...or are your expectations so great that they may shatter brand new potentials?</blockquote>\n\n<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/KaliAltarChitrika.jpg\" align=center> \n\nPilgrimage--a sacred journey--has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Every year, I set out for India, land of the ancients, homeland of the Divine Mother and the one to whom I have dedicated myself, Kali Maa. On these trips, I do my best to open to the possibilities and to the realities; for India is a place of shattering, and I am no stranger to the perils (both seen and unseen) of each voyage. \n\nI go knowing that what happens there is ultimately good--the challenges of this world only serve to amplify the potentials open in the realms of intuition--and I remind myself over and over again that faith is but courage tied to yearning. So I deal with all with which my senses must contend, and I open wide my eyes to the harshness of the legacy of colonialism. All the while, I stare at Her, she who has been kept alive in the hearts and minds of the people for millennia. Certainly, there were valiant attempts to shut Her out; but to no avail. Active is Her worship, alive and well, potent and ubiquitous on the subcontinent. \n\nMy visits these past eleven years have focused on the most holy of Tantrick shrines, the sacred seats of the goddess where shakti, the universal feminine force, dances before your eyes in the diyas (ghee lamp-lights) offered in devotion as much as in the spark of Her eyes in the temple. At Kamakhya, Kalighat, Tarapith and the other <i>shakta pithas</i> (the 51 sacred seats of goddess), She is revealed in the grace of both beauty and harshness, catalyzing transformation. \n\nThis year, my practice having settled into a new place, I asked myself why I go. \"Maa,\" I whined, \"if you are everywhere, why do I traipse half-way around the world to be with you?\" The answer I found lay in the footsteps of the men and women carrying more than their own body weight up the hilly alleyways of Kolkata for a meager meal and insurance of another day of living:  \n\n\"My power,\" She said, \"lies in the simple acts of faith that move us into life rather than away from it. You who reside in the West forget too easily what it means to be alive, what a responsibility it is. Here, where my roots are strong and deep, you are reminded of the fight; of how important is the struggle; of what it means to climb out of the hole of despair because you must. You are reminded, but only if you pay attention, of how truly reflective my world is of yours and how much you live in denial of this truth. Here, you wake up just a bit more whether you are ready or not...and that is my gift to you. \"\n\nHave you been on pilgrimage? What have you learned or experienced that has made a difference, been a catalyst for change, or propelled you to new adventures? \n\n\n\n\n ','Pilgrimage: Walking in the Footsteps of Goddess','','inherit','open','open','','99044-autosave-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:50:55','2013-09-24 04:50:55','',99044,'<blockquote>You are almost through an intense period of waiting. The learnings of the recent past are adequately fermented and are now ready to issue forth a great elixir; you are almost ready to bring into creation a great amrita, that sacred substance o',0,'revision','',0),(100282,2,'2013-09-23 21:50:59','2013-09-24 04:50:59','<blockquote>You are almost through an intense period of waiting. The learnings of the recent past are adequately fermented and are now ready to issue forth a great elixir; you are almost ready to bring into creation a great amrita, that sacred substance of moon juice ambrosia so treasured by Goddess. Remember to breathe. Look inside. Are you impatient for an outcome? If so, relax and ask yourself if you will be able to responsibly handle whatever happens...or are your expectations so great that they may shatter brand new potentials?</blockquote>\r\n\r\n<img src=\"http://www.sharanya.org/images/KaliAltarChitrika.jpg\" align=center> \r\n\r\nPilgrimage--a sacred journey--has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Every year, I set out for India, land of the ancients, homeland of the Divine Mother and the one to whom I have dedicated myself, Kali Maa. On these trips, I do my best to open to the possibilities and to the realities; for India is a place of shattering, and I am no stranger to the perils (both seen and unseen) of each voyage. \r\n\r\nI go knowing that what happens there is ultimately good--the challenges of this world only serve to amplify the potentials open in the realms of intuition--and I remind myself over and over again that faith is but courage tied to yearning. So I deal with all with which my senses must contend, and I open wide my eyes to the harshness of the legacy of colonialism. All the while, I stare at Her, she who has been kept alive in the hearts and minds of the people for millennia. Certainly, there were valiant attempts to shut Her out; but to no avail. Active is Her worship, alive and well, potent and ubiquitous on the subcontinent. \r\n\r\nMy visits these past eleven years have focused on the most holy of Tantrick shrines, the sacred seats of the goddess where shakti, the universal feminine force, dances before your eyes in the diyas (ghee lamp-lights) offered in devotion as much as in the spark of Her eyes in the temple. At Kamakhya, Kalighat, Tarapith and the other <i>shakta pithas</i> (the 51 sacred seats of goddess), She is revealed in the grace of both beauty and harshness, catalyzing transformation. \r\n\r\nThis year, my practice having settled into a new place, I asked myself why I go. \"Maa,\" I whined, \"if you are everywhere, why do I traipse half-way around the world to be with you?\" The answer I found lay in the footsteps of the men and women carrying more than their own body weight up the hilly alleyways of Kolkata for a meager meal and insurance of another day of living:  \r\n\r\n\"My power,\" She said, \"lies in the simple acts of faith that move us into life rather than away from it. You who reside in the West forget too easily what it means to be alive, what a responsibility it is. Here, where my roots are strong and deep, you are reminded of the fight; of how important is the struggle; of what it means to climb out of the hole of despair because you must. You are reminded, but only if you pay attention, of how truly reflective my world is of yours and how much you live in denial of this truth. Here, you wake up just a bit more whether you are ready or not...and that is my gift to you. \"\r\n\r\nHave you been on pilgrimage? What have you learned or experienced that has made a difference, been a catalyst for change, or propelled you to new adventures? \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n ','Pilgrimage: Walking in the Footsteps of Goddess','','inherit','open','open','','99044-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:50:59','2013-09-24 04:50:59','',99044,'<blockquote>You are almost through an intense period of waiting. The learnings of the recent past are adequately fermented and are now ready to issue forth a great elixir; you are almost ready to bring into creation a great amrita, that sacred substance o',0,'revision','',0),(100283,2,'2013-09-23 21:53:05','2013-09-24 04:53:05','','Kolkata Tree Shrine','','inherit','open','open','','dscn1985','','','2013-09-23 21:53:05','2013-09-24 04:53:05','',99044,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100284,2,'2013-09-23 21:56:11','2013-09-24 04:56:11','Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an opportunity to discover Her mysteries more deeply and sweetly. Each voyage invites the devotee to delve deeper into her or his spiritual path, expand horizons, learn first-hand about living Goddess traditions and experience the history and culture of the birthplace of Tantra.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIf you join us, you will access and visit temples and spiritual sites otherwise hard to reach, gaining entrance to a world often off-limits to foreign visitors. Come with us to meet priests, tantrics, women adepts, and spiritual seekers devoted to the Divine Mother!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"20\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3><a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\">Devotees in the News!</a></h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_100156\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"558\"]<a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100156 imgborder \" alt=\"India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News.jpg\" width=\"558\" height=\"314\" /></a> Blessings of the Divine Mother Kamakhya at her temple outside of Guwahti in Assam.[/caption]','Pilgrimage','','inherit','open','open','','99136-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:56:11','2013-09-24 04:56:11','',99136,'Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an oppor',0,'revision','',0),(100285,2,'2013-09-23 21:57:17','2013-09-24 04:57:17','Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an opportunity to discover Her mysteries more deeply and sweetly. Each voyage invites the devotee to delve deeper into her or his spiritual path, expand horizons, learn first-hand about living Goddess traditions and experience the history and culture of the birthplace of Tantra.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIf you join us, you will access and visit temples and spiritual sites otherwise hard to reach, gaining entrance to a world often off-limits to foreign visitors. Come with us to meet priests, tantrics, women adepts, and spiritual seekers devoted to the Divine Mother!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"20\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3><a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\"> </a></h3>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_100156\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"558\"]<a href=\"/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYA2006IndiaPilgrimage.pdf\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-100156 imgborder \" alt=\"India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/India-Pilgrimage-SHARANYA-in-the-News.jpg\" width=\"558\" height=\"314\" /></a> Blessings of the Divine Mother Kamakhya at her temple outside of Guwahti in Assam.[/caption]','Pilgrimage','','inherit','open','open','','99136-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 21:57:17','2013-09-24 04:57:17','',99136,'Pilgrimage—a sacred journey—has the capacity, should we choose to engage it, to take us to the heart of our beingness. Pilgrimage offers those seeking Goddess in Her most powerful forms (through Kali, any of the Mahavidyas, Matrikas, and Yoginis) an oppor',0,'revision','',0),(100286,2,'2013-09-23 22:02:42','2013-09-24 05:02:42','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.<br><br>\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.<br><br>\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam. <br><br>\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas through image and song:<br><br>\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:02:42','2013-09-24 05:02:42','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100287,2,'2013-09-23 22:05:23','2013-09-24 05:05:23','It was perhaps no accident that exactly 108 of us gathered last night at 11PM for a ritual dedicated to the Divine Mother, Kali Maa. In Hinduism, the number 108 is considered especially auspicious, aligning the heavens and Earth in powerful relationship toward peace.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/PantheaCon-Kali-Puja-021912-II.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-medium wp-image-49\" title=\"PantheaCon Kali Puja 021912 II\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/PantheaCon-Kali-Puja-021912-II-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"Kali Maa at SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja PCon 2012\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a>Indeed, our ceremony for the <a title=\"Why the Dark Goddess? \" href=\"http://www.sharanya.org/shacan/darkgoddess.php4\" target=\"_blank\">Dark Goddess</a> was imbued with the special fragrance of the Divine as She opened internal gateways and sweetly unleashed her scythe of discrimination among us.\r\n\r\nSome come to Kali hoping to score power and prestige, Her allure a false understanding of the wild ride She promises. Others come fearing Her mysteries, an ego-driven humility rather than a willingness to get raw to be found beneath their lowered gazes.\r\n\r\nThe work of our Kali Puja was to draw out the heartfelt yearning that lay at the bottom of it all, first using mantra to stir up our insides and strengthen our resolve.  With reverberations of <a title=\"OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH Mantra\" href=\"http://www.jukeboxalive.com/audio_play_offsite.php?mid=1980825&amp;skin=1980563\" target=\"_blank\">OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH</a> in the air, our <em>pranayama</em> then asked the guidance of Pranashakti to hold the channel of our potential open to let Goddess do what was needed.\r\n\r\nSome called Her name with abandon, others cried softly into their palms. Maa was there, bold, audacious, soft and supple in all Her glory. Provocations to remember were made and community supported the energy of vitalization with focused breath, intention, and a drumbeat of connection to Earth and ancestors. We called on one another as family and the circle strengthened.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-50\" style=\"color: #333333; font-style: normal; line-height: 24px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial;\" title=\"PantheaCon Kali Puja 021912\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/PantheaCon-Kali-Puja-021912-292x300.jpg\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s Small Kali Altar @ PantheaCon 2012\" width=\"292\" height=\"300\" />\r\n<div>\r\n\r\nOur meditation began, like the <a title=\"51 Names of Kali Maa\" href=\"http://www.jukeboxalive.com/audio_play_offsite.php?mid=1981907&amp;skin=1980563\" target=\"_blank\">chanting of Her sacred names</a>, on the cremation ground. From there, the variety of our experience expanded, each of us engaged in relationship with Maa unique to our own soul\'s calling. Some of us touched Her feet in our mind\'s eye, lowering ourselves naked to the Divine Will. Others made offerings of flowers and incense, blood and ghee, a sacrifice that the eternal fire be lit within us in attunement with our personal <em>sankalpa</em>, our sacred intention.\r\n\r\nFrom the internal landscape, we traveled into the space of celebration, singing <a title=\"Jai Maa! SHARANYA\'s Aarati to Maa\" href=\"http://www.jukeboxalive.com/audio_play_offsite.php?mid=1981943&amp;skin=1980563\" target=\"_blank\">Jai Maa!</a> in praise of Her, honoring the work of the night and the work to come, for we had opened to Her in our lives, some of us, in new and deepened ways. Our hearts lifted with the clanging of the bell, knowing that hope lives eternal in Her embrace, and we each had our moment for <em>darshan</em>, the outward look of seeing Her eye to eye before the circling slowed and we grounded, answering the call, \"Jai Maa Kali ki...\" with a resounding, \"JAI!\".\r\n\r\nGratitudes offered, the circle returned to breath and awareness of the gifts of the night. Prayers and thanksgiving to those guardians and spirits who had accompanied us, and we were ready for a step, almost, back into the evening\'s mundane consciousness. A bit of <em>prasad</em>, the sacred food first offered to Maa within us, we learned some about Her favorite offerings and places in India before the circle was opened. Hearts full, we departed, 108 of us blessed.\r\n\r\n</div>','PantheaCon 2012 - Kali Puja','','inherit','open','open','','48-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:05:23','2013-09-24 05:05:23','',48,'It was perhaps no accident that exactly 108 of us gathered last night at 11PM for a ritual dedicated to the Divine Mother, Kali Maa. In Hinduism, the number 108 is considered especially auspicious, aligning the heavens and Earth in powerful relationship t',0,'revision','',0),(100288,2,'2013-09-23 22:06:37','2013-09-24 05:06:37','[caption id=\"attachment_118\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"225\"]<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/2013-02-16-22.52.38.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-118 \" alt=\"Maa\'s Altar and Prasad for Devotees (2/16 @ 11pm)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/2013-02-16-22.52.38-225x300.jpg\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" /></a> Maa\'s Altar and Prasad for Devotees[/caption]\r\n\r\nKali Puja at PantheaCon is something of a tradition, and as we entered the room to set up for the ritual on Saturday night, a devotee (the first in line waiting for the doors to open) noted this was her fourth year coming to worship with us. She had nowhere to go in her hometown and looked forward to this celebration of the Divine Mother as Dark Goddess every year. Nothing could have set the stage better for our worship than the yearning heart of a lover of Maa.\r\n\r\nOur puja was meditative and blissful, a call to listen deeply to our internal landscape for reverberations of soul. Devotees gathered in the space to the simple sounds of OM MAA, and we together came into her embrace gently and sweetly. Some of us called to her aloud, others only in our hearts. Our circling created a container for the evening\'s work and then our breath to the beat of SA\'HAM (She I Am) invited Goddess Kali to be present. If we have nothing else, we have our breath to guide and provide inspiration for worship.\r\n\r\nThis Kali Puja asked us to remember why we are here and it challenged us to own the truth of our incarnation. Wounded, knowing pain and suffering, we still chose life. With this, the puja asked us to be the fullest truth, to reflect our soul\'s purpose, in order to give back to Maa the life she provided. Doing so, we will each find freedom and experience love.\r\n\r\nFrom invocation to deep meditation, devotees worked the mantra OM KRIM KALYAI NAMAH from breath to bone. We allowed Maa to enter consciousness and then permeate our bodies as a liberator, a devourer of falsehood. We felt her passion alive within us as space was created for our emerging selves to be revealed.\r\n\r\nThis called for a celebration, and a chorus of JAI MAA! danced about the room, syllables lifted on voices filled with power and emotion. Her ability to see us, hold us, and allow us to be all of who we are and are becoming was palpable. The potency of Maa Kali shone in our eyes.\r\n\r\nGratitudes to all sisters and brothers present in the flesh and in spirit. We feel you still and with you kiss Maa\'s lotus feet.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','PantheaCon 2013 - Kali Puja','','inherit','open','open','','117-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:06:37','2013-09-24 05:06:37','',117,'[caption id=\"attachment_118\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"225\"]<a href=\"http://sharanya.org/mandala/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/2013-02-16-22.52.38.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-118 \" alt=\"Maa\'s Altar and Prasad for Devotees (2/16 @ 11pm)\" src=\"http://',0,'revision','',0),(100289,2,'2013-09-23 22:07:27','2013-09-24 05:07:27','Sunday night, 11:00pm. Kali Puja at PantheaCon. The doors opened and the sounds of Her sacred names began to fill the air, vibrations of Goddess Kali entering our bodies through ears first. Eyes began taking in the altar images as throngs of devotees and those entranced by Her mysteries circled to the tune. SHARANYA initiates and Daughters of Kali worked to guard, ground and move the dance of Shiva and Shakti as we together purified and began to feel that the night\'s celebration would be filled with power, grace, and Divine love.\r\n\r\nAs Rashani (priestess/purohit) for the ceremony, I let Her guide me. Sensing the yearning and open hearts of everyone gathered, it was easy to take us immediately deeper into communion with our Divine Mother through meditation and breath. Her sacred syllables guided us, helping to crystallize a sankalpa (sacred intention) and further unencumber our souls. Both a certain intensity and a genuine playfulness were with us as we each spoke our name, proclaiming the intention to perform worship, each of us owning the responsibility born of our passion and desire. \r\n\r\nFrom honorings of Ganesha, Agni, Ancestors, and Shiva, we then worked our prana pratishta as a community, together  intoning SA\'HAM in meditation on Her eyes, allowing the energy on our breath to move from heart to Her. Awakening Her murti (image), Kali Maa joined us and we danced...Jai Maa! \r\n\r\nGratitudes to all who join in the magick of the night and to Amory, Satya, Jaratura, Jayada, and Sanatani especially for your dedication, energy, creativity, and presence. \r\n\r\n<i><center>I\'m always struck by how hard I make the practice in my head and how easy it is when it actually happens.  It strikes me especially at the PantheaCon pujas.  There we are, a little handful of initiates and perhaps hundreds of others, many of whom have no experience of Tantra or of Maa Kali.  The only Sanskrit they know is \"Om.\"  How many of them are wondering if it will be too foreign to them, or too frightening?  How many of them wonder if Maa will turn them away, or if we from SHARANYA will, for \"doing it wrong?\"\r\n\r\nIn a hotel there are many aspects of the traditional puja that we cannot do.  There is no fire, no incense, no juicy melon.  But it doesn\'t matter.  We bring forth the image of Maa, outside or in our own heads.  We surround her with our presents and decorations, however great or small they are.  We put ourselves totally into this moment, like children; and like children we scream \"Maa!\" until she comes to us.  Maa, look at me!  Maa, hear me!  Maa, hold me!  And she always does.\r\n\r\nPeople came to Her, and they sang, danced, laughed, wept, tasted cream and chocolate prasad, and in the end, they felt Her gaze and Her embrace.</i>  - Sanatani </center>\r\n\r\n','PantheaCon 2010 - Kali Puja','','inherit','open','open','','99051-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:07:27','2013-09-24 05:07:27','',99051,'Sunday night, 11:00pm. Kali Puja at PantheaCon. The doors opened and the sounds of Her sacred names began to fill the air, vibrations of Goddess Kali entering our bodies through ears first. Eyes began taking in the altar images as throngs of devotees and ',0,'revision','',0),(100291,2,'2013-09-23 22:16:31','2013-09-24 05:16:31','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.<br><br>\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.<br><br>\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam. <br><br>\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas through image and song:<br><br>\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"PantheaCon\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja: The Dark Goddess Awakens</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Powerful Ceremony Where East Meets West</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual participation in PantheaCon is a tradition that fosters community for many devotees of the Divine Mother, especially those who are a long way from our home temple in San Francisco. Many line up long before the ritual begins to ensure participation. The ceremony has evolved over the years, and we open our doors to about 100 celebrants with chant and a moving meditation to Her mysteries.<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"12\" perpage=\"5\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:16:31','2013-09-24 05:16:31','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100292,2,'2013-09-23 22:19:05','2013-09-24 05:19:05','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam.\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas through image and song:\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"PantheaCon\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja: The Dark Goddess Awakens</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Powerful Ceremony Where East Meets West</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual participation in PantheaCon is a tradition going back to 2004, one that fosters community for many devotees of the Divine Mother, especially those who are a long way from our home temple in San Francisco. Many line up long before the ritual begins to ensure participation. The ceremony has evolved over the years, and we open our doors to about 100 celebrants with chant and a moving meditation that guides us into Her mysteries.\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"12\" perpage=\"5\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:19:05','2013-09-24 05:19:05','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100293,2,'2013-09-23 22:20:00','2013-09-24 05:20:00','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.<br><br>\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.<br><br>\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam.<br><br>\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas through image and song:<br><br>\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"PantheaCon\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja: The Dark Goddess Awakens</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Powerful Ceremony Where East Meets West</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual participation in PantheaCon is a tradition going back to 2004, one that fosters community for many devotees of the Divine Mother, especially those who are a long way from our home temple in San Francisco. Many line up long before the ritual begins to ensure participation. The ceremony has evolved over the years, and we open our doors to about 100 celebrants with chant and a moving meditation that guides us into Her mysteries.<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"12\" perpage=\"5\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:20:00','2013-09-24 05:20:00','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100294,2,'2013-09-23 22:23:30','2013-09-24 05:23:30','','Peacock Feather','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_0168','','','2013-09-23 22:23:30','2013-09-24 05:23:30','',99031,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100295,2,'2013-09-23 22:25:31','2013-09-24 05:25:31','','Puja Altar','','inherit','open','open','','dsc_0159','','','2013-09-23 22:25:31','2013-09-24 05:25:31','',99036,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100296,2,'2013-09-23 22:40:39','2013-09-24 05:40:39','','Festivals','','publish','closed','closed','','festivals','','','2013-09-23 22:41:13','2013-09-24 05:41:13','',0,'',0,'th_slideshows','',0),(100297,2,'2013-09-23 22:39:00','2013-09-24 05:39:00','','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','bhakti-boos-024','','','2013-09-23 22:39:00','2013-09-24 05:39:00','',100296,'',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(100298,2,'2013-09-23 22:44:52','2013-09-24 05:44:52','[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/YoniPuja2009/Yoni%20Altar.jpg\" align=\"right\" />\r\n\r\nJoin us each year around Summer Solstice for a devotional and celebratory festival dedicated to Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness, during the auspicious time of abundance in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth...the time when Devī, Goddess, bleeds.<br><br>\r\n\r\nOften, the connection between the power of women\'s blood and the paradoxical mystery of the Goddess is most fully recognized in the Crone or Dark Goddess aspect of the Divine because She is the doorway between the worlds of life and death. It is the raudra devīs (fierce goddesses) who, in India, are said to menstruate. In temples dedicated to these intense emanations of śākti (the feminine force), one finds the rites and rituals of the goddess\' ritu, or menstrual blood.<br><br>\r\n\r\nAt SHARANYA, we hold this space for Her and for all beings seeking peace, healing, truth and wholeness. During this time, we recognize the power of Her most holy festival of Ambuvāci--the three days the goddess menstruates (beginning on the new moon usually following Summer Solstice)--when the forces of life and death co-join at the temple of Kāmākhyā in northeastern India, birthplace of Tantra and a heartland today of goddess worship.<br><br>\r\n\r\nIn our Yoni Puja, we recognize that Her potency is so wild and intense, so sweet and sublime, that whether seen as fierce or mild She is a force offering both comfort and strength...even in our moments of silence and despair. We invite you to be with us. Open in the safe space of our temple to the paradox held in the quiet and the song in order to receive her lessons, as well as Her blessings, during this most auspicious time. If you can\'t be with us in person, join us in spirit!<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"27\" perpage=\"4\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[tab title=\"Mahakali Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Kali Maa and the Quest for Light in the Dark Time of the Year</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual Kali Puja Festival is a time to delight in the mysteries of Maa in concurrence with what is known as the puja season in India. First comes Navaratri, the nine nights of Goddess, and then the festival of lights, Diwali. During the amavasya (new moon) of Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshiped throughout West Bengal, Orissa and Assam.<br><br>\r\n\r\nEnjoy some of our previous pujas on our <a href=\"http://sharanya.org/resources/galleries/\">Galleries</a> page and here through image and song:<br><br>\r\n\r\n[one_half] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival - October 17, 2009\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CwBCN4ORak\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99955 imgborder\" alt=\"video 1\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-1.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last] <a title=\"SHARANYA\'s Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5UGskSqluI\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-99956 imgborder\" alt=\"video 2\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/video-2.jpg\" /></a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"PantheaCon\"]\r\n<h3>Kali Puja: The Dark Goddess Awakens</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Powerful Ceremony Where East Meets West</b></span></i></h4>\r\nSHARANYA\'s annual participation in PantheaCon is a tradition going back to 2004, one that fosters community for many devotees of the Divine Mother, especially those who are a long way from our home temple in San Francisco. Many line up long before the ritual begins to ensure participation. The ceremony has evolved over the years, and we open our doors to about 100 celebrants with chant and a moving meditation that guides us into Her mysteries.<br><br>\r\n\r\n[blog category=\"12\" perpage=\"5\" pagination=\"on\" ]\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[/tabgroup]','Festivals','','inherit','open','open','','99912-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:44:52','2013-09-24 05:44:52','',99912,'[tabgroup] [tab title=\"Ambubachi Mela\"]\r\n<h3>Yoni Puja Festival</h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h4><i><span style=\"color: #8d1a1c;\"><b>A Celebration of Goddess, Women, Earth and The Feminine in All Things</b></span></i></h4>\r\n<img alt=\"\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/images/Yo',0,'revision','',0),(100299,2,'2013-09-23 22:46:51','2013-09-24 05:46:51','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <i>yoni tattva</i>, the essence of the Divine Female.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali, Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Sunday, June 14, 2009, community gathered in a devotional and celebratory festival honoring Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness. We came together during the auspicious time of abundance known as Ambubachi Mela in the cycle of life, death and rebirth. This is the time when <i>Devi</i>, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">First Annual Yoni Puja (2006)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIn February of 2006, SHARANYA offered our first Yoni Puja dedicated to the Divine Female, Divine Feminine, Gaia, Women, and our sacred bodies. Community members built a beautiful yoni gateway through which ritual participants passed, complete with a pink rose-filled clitoris-like topping. Everyone danced in honor of the Mystery, inclusive of the Sacred Male, and all received a special darshan.\r\n\r\nAgain in June of 2007, we joined in the festival of Devi to honor the Sacred Female through Yoni Puja, and we have continued the tradition every year since at the time of Solstice in correspondence with <a title=\"Festivals\" href=\"http://sharanya.org/events/festivals/\">Ambubachi Mela </a>in India.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:46:51','2013-09-24 05:46:51','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/',0,'revision','',0),(100300,2,'2013-09-23 22:50:13','2013-09-24 05:50:13','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <i>yoni tattva</i>, the essence of the Divine Female.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali, Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Sunday, June 14, 2009, community gathered in a devotional and celebratory festival honoring Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness. We came together during the auspicious time of abundance known as Ambubachi Mela in the cycle of life, death and rebirth. This is the time when <i>Devi</i>, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">First Annual Yoni Puja (2006)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIn February of 2006, SHARANYA offered our first Yoni Puja dedicated to the Divine Female, Divine Feminine, Gaia, Women, and our sacred bodies. Community members built a beautiful yoni gateway through which ritual participants passed, complete with a pink rose-filled clitoris-like topping. Everyone danced in honor of the Mystery, inclusive of the Sacred Male, and all received a special darshan.\r\n\r\nAgain in June of 2007, we joined in the festival of Devi to honor the Sacred Female through Yoni Puja, and we have continued the tradition every year since at the time of Solstice in correspondence with <a title=\"Festivals\" href=\"http://sharanya.org/events/festivals/\">Ambubachi Mela </a>in India.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:50:13','2013-09-24 05:50:13','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/e',0,'revision','',0),(100301,2,'2013-09-23 22:51:53','2013-09-24 05:51:53','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <i>yoni tattva</i>, the essence of the Divine Female.\r\n\r\nWe invite you to explore these galleries for images and stories of our work and worship. Let this be a moment of meditation for you today. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali, Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Sunday, June 14, 2009, community gathered in a devotional and celebratory festival honoring Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness. We came together during the auspicious time of abundance known as Ambubachi Mela in the cycle of life, death and rebirth. This is the time when <i>Devi</i>, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">First Annual Yoni Puja (2006)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIn February of 2006, SHARANYA offered our first Yoni Puja dedicated to the Divine Female, Divine Feminine, Gaia, Women, and our sacred bodies. Community members built a beautiful yoni gateway through which ritual participants passed, complete with a pink rose-filled clitoris-like topping. Everyone danced in honor of the Mystery, inclusive of the Sacred Male, and all received a special darshan.\r\n\r\nAgain in June of 2007, we joined in the festival of Devi to honor the Sacred Female through Yoni Puja, and we have continued the tradition every year since at the time of Solstice in correspondence with <a title=\"Festivals\" href=\"http://sharanya.org/events/festivals/\">Ambubachi Mela </a>in India.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:51:53','2013-09-24 05:51:53','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/e',0,'revision','',0),(100302,2,'2013-09-23 22:52:50','2013-09-24 05:52:50','<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe invite you to explore these galleries for images and stories of our work and worship. Let this be a moment of meditation for you today. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<h1><a title=\"2013 Yoni Puja Festival\" href=\"/events/festivals/\">2013 Yoni Puja Festival</a></h1>\r\nOn the night of Sunday, June 9, 2013, we gathered together in community to celebrate the time when Goddess bleeds. Also known as Ambubachi Mela, this festival is a weaving of indigenous, Earth-centered, and Goddess mysteries. It culminates in the drinking of <i>yoni tattva</i>, the essence of the Divine Female.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n[tabgroup]\r\n[tab title=\"Kali Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2009 Kali Puja Festival\" href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\">6th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100131 imgborder\" alt=\"6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-&amp;-Fundraiser\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/6th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival-Fundraiser.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, October 17, 2009, we gathered together in community to honor Kali, Dark Goddess, Devourer of Time, She of No Beginning and No Ending, Mother of the Universe. The work of preparing for this annual celebration and festival was intense; and everyone in community worked overtime to make the space and our spirits ready to welcome Her in during this special Divali time, Festival of Lights, the Tantric New Year and opening to Kali\'s deepest mysteries. Prior to opening the doors to let everyone in for worship, some of SHARANYA\'s initiates and Daughters of Kali gathered to ground into the temple space and focus for the worship and work to be done.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">5th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100133 imgborder\" alt=\"5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/5th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of October 25th was our 5th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 80 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine our gathering. The evening was mild and warm, with a beautiful waning moon in the sky winding toward Divali. Incense, candles and beautiful, community-created altars to each of the cardinal directions blessed the space. Here is some of what we experienced together. Jai Maa!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-10-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">4th Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100137 imgborder\" alt=\"4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/4th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe night of November 10, 2007 was our 4th Annual Kali Puja Festival, a celebration of the Divine Mother. Over 70 people attended from all paths and backgrounds, bringing their curiosity, open hearts, and love of the Divine to our gathering. The evening was stormy, adding a special coziness to the ritual. This night, community gathers to create the sacred container for our evening\'s work. Much planning, thought and preparation goes into our Kali Puja!\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-11-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\">2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100138 imgborder\" alt=\"2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/2th-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn the night of Saturday, November 5, 2005, SHARANYA community welcomed in the Divine Mother during our 2nd Annual Kali Puja Festival. Held at Fort Mason in San Francisco, just next to the life-giving ocean waters. About 50 devotees joined hands to cast our sacred circle for the night. Community built altars and decorated the space to create a magickal and memorable event. Each direction was consecrated. Here, we hailed the energies of the north.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2005-kali-puja-festival\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">First Annual Kali Puja Festival (2004)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100140 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/SHARANYAs-First-Annual-Kali-Puja-Festival.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nThe air was cool when we arrived at Fort Mason to set up for this big adventure, our First Annual Kali Puja Festival. We had been worshiping together in our Sanctuary for a few years now and had already initiated our first Daughters of Kali. Our second chakra of seekers had formed, and we were growing a community! This puja, we felt, was a way to share our love of Maa with others.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2004-kali-puja-festival/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Yoni Puja Festivals\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">Yoni Puja (June 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100153 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(June-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-June-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Sunday, June 14, 2009, community gathered in a devotional and celebratory festival honoring Mahadevi, Great Goddess, and Her most powerful manifestations through the Ten Great Insights, the Most Transparent Revelations of Consciousness. We came together during the auspicious time of abundance known as Ambubachi Mela in the cycle of life, death and rebirth. This is the time when <i>Devi</i>, Goddess, bleeds.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-yoni-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">First Annual Yoni Puja (2006)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100154 imgborder\" alt=\"Yoni-Puja-(Spring-2006-&amp;-Summer-2007)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Puja-Spring-2006-Summer-2007.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nIn February of 2006, SHARANYA offered our first Yoni Puja dedicated to the Divine Female, Divine Feminine, Gaia, Women, and our sacred bodies. Community members built a beautiful yoni gateway through which ritual participants passed, complete with a pink rose-filled clitoris-like topping. Everyone danced in honor of the Mystery, inclusive of the Sacred Male, and all received a special darshan.\r\n\r\nAgain in June of 2007, we joined in the festival of Devi to honor the Sacred Female through Yoni Puja, and we have continued the tradition every year since at the time of Solstice in correspondence with <a title=\"Festivals\" href=\"http://sharanya.org/events/festivals/\">Ambubachi Mela </a>in India.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/first-yoni-pujas/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n[/tab]\r\n\r\n[tab title=\"Worship &amp; Events\"]\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (April 2010)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100143 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(April-2010)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-April-2010.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2010-04-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (September 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100144 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(September-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-September-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-09-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100145 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">Trans/Trance: My Big Fat Gay Puja!</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100146 imgborder\" alt=\"TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/TransTrance-My-Big-Fat-Gay-Puja.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-03-public-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (February 2009)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100147 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(February-2009)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-February-2009.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-02-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">Kali Puja (August 2008)</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100148 imgborder\" alt=\"Kali-Puja-(August-2008)\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Kali-Puja-August-2008.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2008-08-kali-puja/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h2><a title=\"2007 Kali Puja SoCal\" href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\">Orange County Kali Puja</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100149 imgborder\" alt=\"Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Orange-County-Kali-Puja-Workshop.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2007-07-socal\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half last=last]\r\n<h2><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">South Altar at Spiral Dance</a></h2>\r\n<a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100152 imgborder\" alt=\"South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/South-Altar-at-Spiral-Dance.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Fusce ut felis cursus, congue nunc eget, molestie felis. Maecenas dapibus convallis nunc sed malesuada. Morbi semper urna erat, ut vehicula sapien vulputate hendrerit. Cras venenatis convallis facilisis. Duis aliquet orci id placerat semper. Morbi vel dignissim mi. Morbi quis neque pulvinar, faucibus nunc ac, sodales neque. Phasellus fringilla eros ac magna semper, sed hendrerit nisi tincidunt. Nullam eu fringilla dui.\r\n\r\n<strong><em><a href=\"/galleries/2009-samhain-altar/\">View the gallery &gt;</a></em></strong>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n[/tab]\r\n[/tabgroup]','Galleries','','inherit','open','open','','99940-revision-v1','','','2013-09-23 22:52:50','2013-09-24 05:52:50','',99940,'<a href=\"/events/festivals/\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-80 imgborder\" alt=\"SHARANYA\'s 2013 Yoni Puja\" src=\"http://sharanya.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Yoni-Altar-e1380001560155.jpg\" /></a>\r\n\r\nWe invite you to explore these galleries for ',0,'revision','',0),