On 19th July 2024, Holy Cross International School, Boisar West, celebrated Ashadhi Ekadashi, a revered festival in the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Vithoba (Vitthal), a form of Lord Krishna, and his devotee Sant Tukaram. The celebration was an opportunity for students and staff to come together in devotion and understanding of the cultural and spiritual significance of this auspicious day.
The day began with a special assembly, where the Principal and teachers shared the significance of Ashadhi Ekadashi with the students. They explained how the festival celebrates the spiritual teachings of Lord Vithoba and Sant Tukaram, emphasizing values such as devotion, humility, and the importance of prayer. Students learned that Ashadhi Ekadashi is traditionally observed with fasting, chanting, and participating in devotional singing, which brings spiritual upliftment and peace.
To create a festive and devotional atmosphere, the school was beautifully decorated with flowers, diyas, and images of Lord Vithoba. A special puja (prayer ceremony) was held in the school, during which students participated by offering flowers, lighting lamps, and singing devotional bhajans. The students eagerly joined in singing songs of devotion, especially abhangas composed by Sant Tukaram, which are an integral part of Ashadhi Ekadashi celebrations.
A special highlight of the day was the Dindi procession, a traditional devotional march where students dressed in vibrant attire, singing devotional songs as they walked around the school campus. This procession was a heartfelt tribute to Lord Vithoba, and the students carried small offerings and flowers to present to the deity. The event fostered a sense of unity and reverence, and the students actively engaged in the prayers and songs with great enthusiasm.
The school also organized a cultural program, where students performed skits, poetry recitations, and dance performances inspired by the life and teachings of Sant Tukaram. The skits illustrated Sant Tukaram’s devotion to Lord Vithoba and the importance of faith and simplicity in one’s spiritual journey. Students performed dances that reflected the spirit of devotion and joy associated with the festival, and the poetry recitations were filled with admiration for the saint’s contributions to spirituality and music.
To conclude the celebration, prasad (sacred offerings) was distributed to all students, symbolizing blessings and unity. The distribution of prasad, which included sweets and fruits, brought a sense of community and togetherness, further enhancing the spirit of the occasion.
In conclusion, the Ashadhi Ekadashi celebration at Holy Cross International School was an enriching and uplifting experience for the students. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of Lord Vithoba and Sant Tukaram, emphasizing the importance of devotion, humility, and spiritual practice. The celebration brought the school community together, fostering a deeper connection to Indian culture and traditions. The school looks forward to continuing such celebrations, nurturing values of faith and devotion in its students.
