Course Duration
1 Hour
1 Hour
Videos
1 Hour
1 Hour
No. Of Sessions
1
1
Sessions per week
1
1
Language
English
Eligibility
Everyone
Everyone
Schedule of Classes
Starts on
-
3:30 PM to 4:30 PM IST
Tuesday
About the Teacher
Madhavanand Das
About the Teacher
Madhavananda Das is an author, researcher, and speaker on Gaudiya Vaishnavism; the director of GORA (the Gaudiya Odiya Research Association), the Puri Branch of BRC (Bhaktivedanta Research Centre); and the managing editor of ISKCON Gopal Jiu Publications.
GORA focuses on research, finding, preserving, translating and publishing rare old Gaudiya Vaishnava texts in Odia and Bengali languages. GORA is also involved with researching old temples and sacred places in Odisha and Jagannath Puri.
He is a disciple of Sri Srimad Gour Govinda Swami, who is a senior disciple of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Madhavananda Das is the founder and editor of Sri Krishna Kathamrita magazine and its email sister publication, Sri Krishna Kathamrita Bindu. Since 1993, he is based in Odisha and Jagannath Puri where he conducts retreats, parikramas and research on traditional Odiya Gaudiya Vaishnavism in the holy Dham.
Course Overview
Overview
This course, conducted by ISKCON Bhagavata Mahavidyalaya, delves into the spiritual significance of the Ratha-yatra festival, exploring it from the perspective of Lakshmi Devi. The Ratha-yatra, or the Festival of Chariots, is a grand celebration that honors Lord Jagannath, and this course uniquely examines the festival through the lens of Lakshmi Devi, the eternal consort of Lord Vishnu.
Objectives
- To provide a comprehensive understanding of the Ratha-yatra festival and its historical and spiritual significance.
- To explore the narratives and scriptures that highlight Lakshmi Devi's perspective on the festival.
- To deepen the understanding of Vaishnava traditions and their theological underpinnings.
- To foster a devotional appreciation for the festival and its rituals.
Course Content
- Introduction to Ratha-yatra
- History and origins of the Ratha-yatra festival.
- Overview of the festival's rituals and practices.
- Lakshmi Devi’s Perspective on Ratha-yatra
- The relationship between Lord Jagannath and Lakshmi Devi.
- The festival’s significance in the context of divine love and devotion.
Methodology
- Lectures and Discussions: Engaging lectures and interactive discussions led by experienced ISKCON scholars.
- Scriptural Study: In-depth study of relevant scriptures including Bhagavad-gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and other Vaishnava texts.
- Q&A Sessions: Dedicated time for students to ask questions and clarify their understanding.
Learning Outcomes
- Gain a profound understanding of the Ratha-yatra festival and its spiritual importance.
- Appreciate the unique perspective of Lakshmi Devi and its relevance to the festival.
- Develop a deeper connection to the Vaishnava traditions and enhance their devotional practices.
- Be equipped to share their insights and understanding of the Ratha-yatra festival with others.
Who Should Attend?
- Devotees seeking a deeper understanding of Vaishnava festivals.
- Students of theology and religious studies.
- Anyone interested in exploring the rich spiritual traditions of Vaishnavism.