Janmastami Celebration at the Seva Ashram in Soquel

August 14, 2009

Photos courtesy of Krishnapriya Devi Dasi ::: Click on the pictures for larger view (you must have javascript enabled)

Krishna Madhuri, Braja Mohini, Hladini Shakti and Sushila Didis assisted in decorating the temple.

Mahadevi Dasi was very enthusiastc with the decorating seva also.

Kalindi Didi

Dressed up for their part in the evening's play were young Sivani and Syama Mohini.

Beautiful flags were made that matched the new outfits.

The devotees and guests gathered in the temple room.

Sripad Siddhanti Maharaj led the gathering of devotees in hearing and chanting the glories about the appearance of Lord Krishna.

Young Madhav was just one of the very happy faces.

Dhanistha Devi Dasi

Nilamani Prabhu and Janavi Devi Dasi.

Jashomati, Krishna Kanti and Rasangi Didis on samosa rolling duty.

As the evening went on it became time for the annual children's play.

The play was about Lord Damodar. After being tied to the butter churn, he pulled down the twin Arjuna trees.

The children always put on a great show and have a lot of fun doing so.

Madhumati Didi is the creative and nuturing director who engages the children in learning about the Lord's pastimes.

Next up the devotees gathered for a dance performance in the Prasadam Hall.

Our very own Chinmoyi Devi Dasi has been studying classical Oriyyan dance and she graced us with a beautiful performance.

Then back to the Temple room where Sripad Janardan Maharaj told the beautiful story of the Lord's appearance.

Vira Chandra Prabhu, Christopher (son of Jayananda Prabhu and Bhaktapriya Didi and a friend.)

Satyabhama Devi Dasi and her brother Ramananda Prabhu invited their friends and co-workers from the Mystery Spot to join in the festivities. They had a good time.

Nandarani, Abha with young Lavanika and Jivana Didis met with Akincan Maharaj.

The Deities were dressed resplendently in Their new clothes for the midnight arotik.

The beautiful embroidery and crowns were recently brought back from India, with the help of Divyashakti Didi and with generous donations from Hasyapriya Prabhu. The sewing was completed with the help of Keli Kadambanana, Isthadevika, Janavi, Krishnapriya and Mallika Devi Dasis.

Then it was time for Prasadam.

There were many preparations to serve out.

The Prasadam Hall was filled to the maximum.

As was the Temple room.

A very happy day
Sri Janmastami Ki Jay!