Grand Celebration of Shri Datt Jayanti at Tapobhoomi
Kundaim, Goa: The sacred land of Tapobhoomi witnessed a vibrant celebration of Shri Datt Jayanti at Shri Datta Padmanabh Peeth, Tapobhoomi Gurupith. The festivities included Dattabhiksha and Rajopachar Mahapooja, performed with great devotion and enthusiasm.
In his divine address, Padmashri Sadguru Brahmeshanandacharya Swamiji, Peethadheeshwar of Shri Datta Padmanabh Peeth, explained the spiritual significance of bhiksha. He reminded devotees that traditionally, freshly cooked food was first offered to the deity, then to guests, and only thereafter consumed by the household. Shri Datt Maharaj himself would go door to door seeking bhiksha, inspiring people to practice charity and devotion. Saints and Mahants across ages have emphasized the importance of bhiksha, and Shri Datt is revered as the deity who protects devotees from adversities.
Swamiji further elaborated that Shri Datt Maharaj was born to Atri and Anasuya. He explained that jealousy (asūyā) destroys purity and must be overcome to receive Datt Maharaj’s blessings. In men, the three qualities — sattva, rajas, and tamas — exist, but transcending them leads to true wisdom, symbolized by Atri. Shri Datt Maharaj incarnated to impart knowledge of Sanatan Dharma and to enlighten society.
Morning Session: The disciples performed Shri Dattmala Mantra Anushthaan and Dattabhiksha Samarpan. Swamiji led the Mahapooja at the Samadhi Mandir, Mahabhishek at the divine Samadhi Sthaan, and Rudrabhishek at the Shri Datt Mandir. Offerings of Chhappan Bhog, Dattabhiksha Samarpan, Poornaahuti, Shri Datt Mahaarti, darshan, and mahaprasad concluded the morning rituals.
Evening Session: The evening was marked by Rajopachar Mahapooja amidst resonant Vedic chants. Tapobhoomi resounded with music, dance, scriptures, drums, conches, bells, and traditional instruments. The Palkhi Utsav was celebrated with great fervor, accompanied by chants of Shri Datt Naam and rhythmic beats of taal-mrudung. Swamiji’s divine blessings, followed by Mahaarti, darshan, and mahaprasad, brought the Shri Datt Jayanti Mahotsav to a graceful conclusion.
The event was attended by central office bearers of Shri Datta Padmanabh Peeth, devotees, and disciples. The program was compered by Shubhakshan Naik. This celebration beautifully blended devotion, tradition, and culture, inspiring the community to walk the path of knowledge and dharma.
