Vishalakshi Mantap at the Art
of living or Ravi Shankar Guruji Ashram is the focal point of the Ashram, where
all the positive spiritual energies come together. This beautifully crafted
architectural marvel has been accredited to be conceived and designed by Sri
Sri Ravi Shankar himself. This magnificent structure of the thousand-petal
fame, with an entirely white marble floor and a lotus-shaped edifice is a
wonderful blend of Vedic architecture and modern technology. The Mantap, known
for its intricate craftsmanship, stunning illumination and elegant décor was
built with the dedicated efforts of about 7,000 workers and volunteers. The
glass dome that tops the building is adorned with a magnificent ‘kalash’ – 15’
ft 3”in high- the biggest in Asia. The couple of fountains that decorate the
path are turned on during evening, along with illumination, that decorates the
magnificent structure. From the top, it looks like a lotus with fully blossom
petals.
This circular shaped six
level multi –purpose hall is used for several activities throughout the day-
mostly Yoga sessions in the morning and Satsang sessions in the evening. When
Guruji is not present in person, his photo is kept at the centre. Hundreds of
red coloured pillows are kept inside for the comfort of visitors. Meditation
classes are also conducted here. The place follows utter silence; one may relax
his mind and get the feeling of being one with soul during meditation. At the
Satsang session in the evening men are required to take left half and women are
required to move towards right half upon entrance.(Sat Sang means company of
good people). While the core team selects the song and sing a line, everyone
else sing with them in chorus, bringing in an aura of spirit to the whole
atmosphere. At some high moments few energetic audience dance to the bhajans.
Satsang usually lasts for 90 minutes between 6.30 PM to 8PM. On Sunday’s it
would start little earlier.
The ashram is about 25
Kms away from Bangalore on Kanakapura Road. It is a widely surrounded place with
plantations, trees, ponds. Many people from all over the world come here for
meditation, peace of mind. Discourses from ashram gurus are conducted every day
for the devotees. After some distance by walk, enjoying the nature and location
of ashram, the big Vishalakshi Mantap, welcomes us. Ashram’s shuttle services
can be availed for elderly people. It is a gorgeous building and stand with
spirituality of love and peace.
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