Lord Nataraja Shrine: The Dedication at Yogaville

Swami Satchidananda and Yogaville residents were joined by eminent guests, from around the world, to celebrate the dedication of the Lord Nataraja Shrine at Satchidananda Ashram in Virginia. The shrine is situated atop Kailash, a high hill named after the sacred mountain of Lord Siva in Nepal.

Siva Nataraja, the King of Cosmic Dance, dances within a flaming halo symbolizing the Pranava OM. On His right ear is a man’s earring and on the left ear is a woman’s earring, showing that He is both male and female. The cobras that coil around the hair and body represent the cosmic force of Siva, the Supreme Yogi.

The magnificent 7-foot bronze Nataraja, was donated by Dr. Karan Singh (former Indian ambassador to the USA) and his wife Princess Yasho. Both Dr. and Mrs. Singh were present for the dedication ceremonies.

Among other prominent guests were: Sri Sivaya Subramuniya Swami (Hinduism Today founder), Dr. P. Jayaraman (Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan USA), Ms. Juliet Hollister (founder, Temple of Understanding), Dr. Mohan Man Sainju (former Nepalese ambassador to the USA) and Dr. Seshagiri Rao (Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, University of Virginia).This video captures the opening procession, morning worship service celebrated under an auspicious shower of rain and talks by the dignitaries. Also included: Dedication Ceremony Lord Siva’s Dance “The Secret of Devotion” Sri Gurudev’s Closing Address

ⓟⓒ2007 Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville, Inc.