Istar - 2012

iStar-2012, a 15-day retreat held from 28^th July to 10^th August, had an overwhelming response for the third year in a row from 45 participants who travelled from the US, UK, Kenya, Brunei and Oman.

The retreat began in Simandhar city and led to a fun, cultural Jatra experience in Bhuj, Kutch. During the retreat participants learned the application of Dada’s basic principles of adjust everywhere, avoid clashes, positivity, respect for parents and elders, the consequences of opinions, selfless seva, the science of chit & pratikraman and most important of all the value of purity.

The participants got to see a glimpse of traditional Indian culture and heritage during the Jatra, where they saw traditional living, learned Kutchi construction techniques and crafts like block printing, pottery and natural dyeing. They enjoyed bhakti at the Trimandir in Bhuj and visited the famous 72 Jinalay temple near Mandvi.

They celebrated Rakshabandhan and Janmastmi with heartfelt devotion at the Adalaj Trimandir in the presence of Pujyashree Deepakbhai. They visited children at Amba School for Excellence and gained new understanding about the significance of these festivals.

The participants touched the pinnacle joy as the retreat drew to an end with Deepakbhai’s blessings. Each participant got Deepakbhai’s personal touch and keys for spiritual progress as they resolved to make it to next year’s iStar! Eligible participants were awarded the gift of Gnan Vidhi after the retreat was over.

Some photos of the same.....