NAVRATRI CELEBRATIONS - 2011

Greetings!

A warm welcome to all for the Navratri Celebrations! It is so great that you can celebrate Navratri in your home!!!

The event is hosted by the Ved Vignan Maha Vidya Peeth at the:

Art of Living International Center, 21^st Km Kanakapura Road, Udayapura, Bangalore 560062, India.

Dates: Sep 28 - Oct 6, 2011.

The following pages contain information that will help you in getting answers to most of the questions / clarifications that you might have related to the Navratri Celebrations. You are also most welcome to stop by the Help Desk set up at the venue for any additional assistance that may be needed.

Introduction

Navratri, Navaratri or Navaratra is a festival of worship and dance. The word Navaratri literally means nine nights in Sanskrit; Nava - Nine and Ratri - nights. The nine days represent the nine months spent by the baby in the mother’s womb. It represents the evolution of the consciousness to a heightened awareness.

In life, there are positive and negative qualities that affect us. Navratri represents how the negativity can be conquered by the inherent positive qualities in an individual so that one emerges as a divine being.

A period of introspection and purification, Navratri is traditionally an auspicious time for starting new ventures.

On the tenth day of October Navratri, the holy day of Dussehra, we celebrate the victory of good over evil.

In Art of Living Bangalore Ashram, when such a celebration happens, it is done for the benefit of all of humanity. It is done with an intention that all the people should be happy; there should be good rainfall, prosperity in the country and so on. Many 'homas' are conducted with the chanting of 'mantras' creating an atmosphere of positivity and celebration.

By sponsoring the puja or taking sankalpa, your name is recited and the puja is offered on your behalf.

Navratri Agenda

The first event of the Navratri takes place on September 28^th with Part II (Advanced) course at 06:00 AM.

Venue

We are delighted to receive you at the high seat of Knowledge, Celebration and Service. Popularly known as the Ashram, the Art of Living International Centre is a unique meeting point of ancient wisdom, spirituality and innovation in human development. This picturesque campus is gifted with a lush, beautiful flora that brings nourishment to the soul, serves as ambrosia for the mind and panacea for the health. You are invited to experience the unique charm of this abode of peace.

Vishalakshi Mantap

The high point of your visit to the Ashram is the Vishalakshi Mantap. This beautifully crafted architectural marvel was conceived and designed by His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The thousand-petalled, white-marble, lotus-shaped edifice is a wonderful blend of Vedic architecture with modern technology. The Mantap, known for its intricate craftsmanship, stunning illumination and elegant decor was built with the dedicated efforts of 7,000 workers and volunteers. The glass dome that tops the building is adorned with a magnificent kalash - 15 feet 3 inches high - the one of the biggest in Asia.

Standing 108 ft tall, Vishalakshi Mantap, when fully lit up at night, looks so mystical and heavenly that one never tires of gazing at it. At the eastern entrance of the Vishalakshi Mantap lies the grand amphitheatre, which can seat up to 20,000 people.

Information Centre

You may reach the Information Centre (Located in front of Vishalakshi Mantap at Amphitheatre basement) at the following telephone numbers  +91-80-28432273/4, 28427060.

On-site Check-in

On arrival at the Ashram, you will need to check-in at the Housing Reception and obtain your accommodation & Name badge. A copy of your registration details, Photocopy of Passport & Visa with C-form (attached, only for International Devotees, 3 copies needed) will be needed to facilitate this.

Check-in will be open from 9:00am - 10:00pm on normal days.

Accommodation

Limited accommodation at the Ashram has been provided for those who have registered online on a first-come basis and the information is conveyed at the time of registration.  Accommodation for the remaining delegates is arranged outside the Ashram and transportation to and from the Ashram has been arranged. 

Connectivity to the Airport

The drive from the Airport to the Ashram is approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. The distance is about 65 KMs. Taxi / car services (Payable extra) to and from the airport are available to suit everyone’s requirements and budget.

Travel Services

Sumeru Travel Solutions, based at ashram, can assist you in getting the Flight /train/bus bookings, Taxis and all travel related services at nominal cost. Delegates / family members who wish to travel to the city may avail the help of travel services team to hire Call Taxis for the trip.  Please provide a 4-hour advance notice for hiring these taxis and the expenses for the same will be born by the users. Email: taxi@sumerutravels.com, Tel : +91-80-32923423 / 26080256

Medical facilities

A medical clinic staffed with a physician and two nurses will be available at the venue.  However, please note that it is your responsibility to provide medical insurance coverage should you need emergency medical attention other than the one provided at the clinic. Common non-prescription medicines will be available at the Venue.  Though the Ashram has a stock of basic medicines, it is better if you bring any medicines that you take regularly. In case of any emergencies, please contact the 24-hour helpdesk at: +91-9343383905 or +91-80-26080234

Divine Services

The Divine Services store located in front of the Housing reception has all the basic commodities that a delegate might need to be comfortable including personal hygiene items, traditional Indian clothes, footwear and snacks.

Telecommunications

There are multiple telecommunication networks in Bangalore providing mobile services. Those mobile phones whose countries have signed telecommunications protocols with India can be used in Bangalore.

A full fledged telecommunications center has been set up at Basement of Divine services with National and International calling facility, fax, photocopying and internet connectivity.

Weather

The weather in Bangalore during October is partly rainy and the average temperature varies from 14^oC to 38^oC. For this reason you may carry an umbrella/rain coat with you if you wish.

Clothes and Dress Code

• The dress code for the Navratri Celebrations is Clothing that covers your shoulders and ankles, nothing too revealing or traditional Indian Kurta-Pyjama & Saree appropriate to the tone of the event. Please do not use footwear at the venue and leave them at the designated area. You may prefer to use inexpensive footwear. The Ashram offers laundry facilities with a 2 - 3 days turn-around time, so please plan accordingly.

• During your stay in the ashram you are expected to be fully clothed (avoid sleeveless, body hugging clothes, short skirts)

Food

All the food at the Ashram will be pure vegetarian. In case you plan to carry some edibles with you, please ensure that it is pure vegetarian. Vegetarian snacks can be bought from the Divine Services and the Vishala Cafeteria located behind Housing reception. In the Pooja Venue, eatables are not allowed.

Smoking and alcohol consumption

The entire Ashram campus is a smoking-free and alcohol-free area.

Foreign Exchange

Most internationally recognized currencies and travelers checks can be exchanged for the Indian currency at the prevailing bank rates at commercial banks, hotels and international airport. Foreign Exchange services will be available at the venue(Sumeru travel solutions)based on current exchange rates.

Power Supply

The electric power supply in India is 220 - 240 volts, 50 hertz. Please make sure that you are using the appropriate converter, if needed, before plugging any electrical gadgets to the power outlets.

Bangalore (or Bengaluru) Information

Situated at an altitude of 920 meters above sea level, Bangalore is the principal administrative, cultural, commercial and industrial centre of the state of Karnataka. The city, which is spread over an area of 2190 square kilometers, enjoys a pleasant and equable climate throughout the year. Its tree-lined streets and abundant greenery have led to it being called the 'Garden City' of India.

For more info, please see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangalore or http://wikitravel.org/en/Bangalore

Ashram Facilities - The following services have been offered to make your stay comfortable. In case of any clarification you could contact one of the Help Desks.

General Guidelines:

• Do not skip any meals. The energy is very high and you need food to remain grounded.
• Every morning before the puja (offering) a shower is essential. Fresh, clean and washed clothes should be worn. Ladies having long hair should not leave their hair loose and open. They should tie their hair.
• Sudarshan kriya should be done before / after the puja. During the puja you can do nadi shodhan pranayam (Alternate nostril breathing) and meditate; please avoid disturbing others by doing BHASTRIKA.
• Hands and Legs need to be washed after a visit to the restroom.
• No water, food, mobile phones, cameras, handy cams should be brought to the Mantap (Hall).
• Please leave your inexpensive footwear only at the shoe stand.
• The best time for meditation is when the chants are reverberating in the mantap.
• You are requested to keep all valuables in the locker room only. You are responsible for your own goods. The ashram administration will not be responsible for any loss of your valuable items.
• Do not lend money to anybody. Please do not speak to strangers except the International information desk or National Desk or Administration or Events Office.
• During your menstrual cycle / periods you can enjoy the program in Vishalakshi mantap. You will refrain from coming to the puja mantap (Hall) and also volunteering your services in the kitchen.
• You need to get back to your rooms by 11 pm latest. Alcohol consumption / smoking / drugs etc are prohibited in the ashram.
• Do not share you room lock numbers. Please report if the combination slip is lost / misplaced.
• (PDA) Public disclosure of affection should be avoided.

Now that you are in the ashram, your home, you are the host. It will be nice if you join all of us in welcoming new guests coming and making them comfortable.

Your participation will make this event special if we adhere to the above said guidelines.

It will be our endeavor to provide you with the best services and a memorable time of your life in Art Of Living International Ashram, Bangalore, India.

Jai Gurudev

Ashram Team.

Arrival Queries

All queries related to documents needed, passport, visa, transport, on-the-spot registration, arrival procedures, etc.

How do I arrange for transport from the airport?

Your options are:

- Order a pre-paid taxi on arrival at Bengaluru International Airport

- Book through Ashram's own travel agency, Sumeru travels:

taxi@sumerutravels.com (Please include your name, program and stay duration, airline information for arrival, and departure too if required)

What are Check-in and Check-out times?

Check-in for any program is till 10 pm, one day prior to the program start date.

Check out for any program is till 12:30 pm one day after the program ending date.

Do I need to bring any documents before I arrive for Check-in? (For International Participant's ONLY)

Arrival Documents required (International Participants):

- 2 C-forms completed and signed

- Print out of program registration form

- Confirmation email containing registration ID number

- Photocopy of passport

- Photocopy of current Valid Indian visa

Arrival Documents required (National Participants):

- Print out of program registration form

- Confirmation email containing registration ID number

- Please carry any of your ID Proof

My visa is in my old passport which passport should I photocopy? (For International Participants ONLY)

Kindly photocopy both your old and new passport pages, and the VALID visa page.

My passport expired but I have extended its validity. What pages should I photocopy? (For International Participants ONLY)

Kindly photocopy the passport page with your name, date of birth etc, AND the page that indicate the NEW date of expiry.

I can't lift heavy things will there be someone to help me with my suitcase when I arrive?

There will be Shuttle services to take you from reception to your room. If additional assistance is needed, the welcome team will provide you with help.

Program and Payment queries

All queries dealing with payment, registration for any program, program contribution queries, etc

How do I register for a program online?

Go to the left-hand side menu and click 'Login/Register' and follow the instructions given accordingly.

Now you can register online itself through www.vvmvp.org, in three simple steps:
1. Create a login
2. Fill in details after logging in
3. Pay through credit/debit card to register yourself !

Can I register and pay for more than one person at one time for one program?

Yes. Kindly follow the appropriate links to process.

I am an Indian Passport Holder but live in another country, how do I determine the amount to pay?

Your program contribution is determined by your country of residence from past one year. Kindly choose your country of residence and pay the relative amount.

I am a PIO/PAN cardholder, how do I determine the amount to pay?

Your program contribution is determined by your country of residence from past one year. Kindly choose your country of residence and pay the relative amount.

What are the methods of payment?

- Online Credit / Debit Card Payment (Visa/Master type Card)

- In person, on arrival (subject to availability)

Please Note: Online Transactions are the quickest and most secure way to guarantee your place, desired accommodation type for your chosen program. In-person payments are at your discretion.

What should I pack/prepare for my program?

-      Loose, light clothing that is comfortable to move in.

-      Clothing that covers your shoulders and ankles, nothing too revealing, please.

-      Cheap flip-flops/ slippers

-      Mosquito repellent and coil

-      Torchlight and batteries

-      Handheld Radio (e.g. your mobile phone) and earphones for language translation facilities, if available. (radios will be also be available for purchase in ashram)

-      Locks and keys for all your suitcases

-      Yoga mat (Yoga mats can be purchased in the Divine services at Ashram)

-      Toiletries: Body wash, Shampoo, toilet paper, clothes washing powder or soap (Toiletries listed and more are also available for purchase at the Divine services at Ashram)

-      One Shawl or jacket for the cool mornings and evenings

-      Towel (thinner the better, to ensure quick drying)

-      Notebook and pen to note down knowledge (also available at Divine services for purchase at Ashram)

-      Relevant chargers- phone, camera

-      Umbrella

-      If you require translation, please ensure that someone who is affiliated with the Art of Living orgranisation is there to provide this service for you. Either bring them along and book their accommodation prior with yours, or another program participant, etc.

If we have registered and paid for the program under one name, but due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the person dropping out, another person would like to replace that registration, what are the formalities?

Unfortunately, all registrations are NON- TRANSFERABLE, NON- CANCELLABLE and NON-REFUNDABLE. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Can I just show up and register before the program?

This is at your own discretion, however there is a high likelihood you MAY be able to join your chosen program, but accommodation at the ashram MAY NOT be available.

If you do want to come in person and try your luck, you will be directed to Ashram's travel agency, Sumeru Travels, upon arrival. They will arrange your registration for the program, your accommodation outside the ashram and transport to and from the ashram to your hotel for the duration of your program.

To avoid disappointments, we highly recommend booking and paying online, as soon as possible.

Can I do two programs simultaneously?

Yes. For example, one can attend both Part II program and Sahaj Samadhi program simultaneously.

If additional short programs are offered, please check with the reception when you have arrived at Ashram for details, payments and timings, to avoid clashes in your schedule.

During the time you are required to be in silence as part of your program, please refrain from participating in any other programs at that time. You may participate, before going in or after coming out of silence.

Are meals included in the program contribution?

Yes. Room stay and meals are included in the program contribution. Meal timings are roughly:

Breakfast 7.30-8.30 am

Lunch 12:30-1:30 pm

Dinner 8:00-9:00 pm

Who can I contact for queries about the programs if I'm not in Bangalore?

You may email:

internationalevents@vvmvp.org or courses@vvmvp.org

You may call:

(91) (80) 26080236

Who can I contact for queries about the programs when I am in Bangalore/Ashram?

Events desk: (80) 26080236 (located below Divine services and Madurya)

Info desk: (80) 28432273/4 (located near VM)

Ashram Queries

All queries dealing with ashram services, venues, timings of satsang, meeting Guruji, etc

I am interested in Ayurvedic treatments, whom can I contact?

Please contact:

Sri Sri Ayurveda Panchakarma

T: (91) 80 2843 2991, 3272 1298

E: info@ssapd.org | www.ssapd.org

What other services are available in Ashram?

Divine shops

- Books, Audio tapes and CDs, Videos, etc.
- Snacks, Art of Living clothing, books, toiletries, First-Aid objects, bottled water, etc.

Nadi Pariksha (life style consultancy)

- Ayurvedic Medical Consultation that is conducted by pulse observation.

Madurya

- Sarees, Churidhars, Salwar Kameez (Punjabi) Sets, etc

- Jewelry

- Indian figurines, books, bags etc

Canteen Vishala

- You can purchase food, tea, coffee, ice-cream, fruit juice, cake, etc from 10 am - 10 pm

Locker service

-Storage for valuables and important documents (located behind Canteen Vishala)

Shuttle service

- Complimentary pick-ups and drop-offs inside the ashram campus for senior citizens, disabled persons or those less able to walk.

Internet Cafe

- International and National Phone calling facilities

- Printing and Scanning Facilities

- Internet facilities

Foreign Exchange available at Sumeru travels

- Change your money

ATM

- Canara Bank (located under Madurya)

- State Bank of India (located near Gate No. 1)

Astrology services (by appointment)

- Please visit Vedic Dharma Sansthan

(located below Madurya shop)

Ayurvedic Treatments (5 min walking distance from Gate No.3)

- Sri Sri Ayurveda Panchakarma

Beauty Parlours (located near Gate No.1 and in Panchakarma)

- Waxing, manicures, pedicures, hair cutting (for females only)

Ashram Clinic/ Pharmacy (for Allopathic (western) medicine & First Aid)

- Near Gate No. 3

- Emergency Ambulance service from Apollo Hospital Bangalore, also available

Laundry Service

-Near Gate No. 3, in front of Ashram Clinic

Dining Hall (Kitchen)

- Meals available, as part of your program contribution, are eaten here.

Toilets

- located on the base floor of Vishalakshi Mantap

- located behind Canteen Vishala

- located next to Dining Hall (kitchen) and Divine Shop

Are there any rules and customs in the Ashram or on the program that I should be aware of?

-      Please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and ankles.

-      Hot water for bathing is available from 4-6 am. If you have a button to turn on the Hot Water in your bathroom, please turn it on at least 15 mins before you intend to bathe.

-      If your program requires you to be in silence, please refrain from talking, whispering, or communication with anyone in any way to reap full benefits of the program.

-      Men and Women do not share accommodation. Men will be housed with other men, and women housed with other women.

-      At Yagnashala and Vishalakshi Mantap, men and women sit separately.

-      No shoes, food or drink, except for bottled water, is allowed inside Vishalakshi Mantap or Yagnashala

-      Vishalakshi Mantap and Yagnashala are quiet zones, please refrain from talking loudly, bringing children inside and having your phone on, as people might be meditating.

-      There will be group Sadhana (Padmasadhana, Pranayam, Bhastrika and Kriya) every morning during your program, please listen to announcements for timings the night before, at the end of Satsang.

-      Rudrapuja will take place every Monday at Yagnashala (subject to change), please listen to announcements for timings the night before, at the end of Satsang.

-      Lost and Found is located in the Housing Office

-      Please do not wear any expensive footwear

-      Please wear your nametags at ALL TIMES for security reasons

-      Ladies are requested to tie their hair during any puja.

-      Water that is safe to drink can be purchased at the divine shop, or filled in the Kitchen (Dining Hall) or the various taps, which indicate "Drinking Water"

-      No alcohol, cigarettes or drugs are allowed in the ashram

-      No meat is allowed in ashram (includes chicken, duck, fish, shrimp, prawn, egg, beef, pork, lamb, venison, etc)

-      Please avoid eating cut fruit from the stalls on the road in front of the Kitchen (Dining Hall), as we cannot guarantee the cleanliness and hygiene of the stalls.

-      Everyone should be in their own rooms at 11 pm

-      If you are designated seva, please do it. If you missed group allocation for seva, then please perform seva on your own initiative. (e.g. wiping plates, serving food, cleaning Vishalakshi Mantap)

How can I meet Guruji in person?

Darshan (Guruji mass bless) timings are Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturday at approximately 4 pm. Kindly collect tokens at the Secretariat Building next to Vishalakshi Mantap in the morning, on the day.

To meet him more personally, please contact someone in the Secretariat building when you arrive at Ashram. Duration of meetings vary depending on Guruji's schedule. Please don't be disheartened.

What time and where is satsang?

Monday to Saturday: Usually starts at 6:30 pm, unless otherwise announced.

Sunday: Usually around 4:30 pm, unless otherwise announced.

Satsang Locations

Vishalakshi Mantap (Meditation Hall)

Outdoor Amphitheatre (located in front of Vishalakshi Mantap)

Yagnashala (located on the downhill slope in front of Housing)

Is there wireless Internet access available for my laptop in the ashram?

You can purchase pre-paid Wireless Internet access, please consult

Housing Queries

All queries dealing with housing, accommodation, for yourself or any additional members, group queries, etc

Are room upgrades available after registering?

This is subject to availability. For housing related queries, please contact Housing Department directly, either prior by email housing@vvmvp.org, or in person when you arrive.

Is it possible for my friends and I to reserve a room together?

This is subject to availability. For housing related queries, please contact Housing Department directly, either prior by email housing@vvmvp.org, or in person when you arrive.

If I want to bring my child and/or nanny, what formalities should I follow?

Unfortunately, there are no babysitting or child-minding facilities available at the Bangalore Ashram. Thus, if the child is old enough to take care of itself or if you want to bring your own nanny for the duration of your program/stay to take care of your child, please contact Housing to reserve accommodation as there might not be rooms available closer to the dates. They will need to have "Ashram Stay Registration Forms" filled out either prior to or on the day of, their arrival.

If ashram accommodation is full, what are my options?

Sumeru travels will be able to assist you in booking accommodation outside but close to the ashram. In addition, they will provide the transport required back and forth during the program.

I have booked accommodation outside the ashram, (either on my own or through Sumeru Travels) where do I go when I arrive at ashram?

If you have booked your own accommodation outside the ashram, please inform the welcome team at reception and they will direct you for printing of your nametag for the program.

If you have booked with Sumeru Travels, the welcome team at reception will direct you to Sumeru Travels where they will process your registration, stay and printing of your nametag for the program.

Please note: If you have booked your stay outside the ashram on your own, ashram will not be held responsible for your safety, transport & security.

Is the ashram wheelchair accessible?

There is ramp access to Vishalakshi Mantap, Canteen and Yagnashala, however that being said, there are still steps to the accommodations, to get inside Vishalakshi Mantap, etc.

Please contact Housing and Administration offices at ashram before you make your registration. A full-time care assistant at an extra cost is subject to availability which administration may be able to book for your comfort during your stay at ashram. However we would like to stress the point that a care assistance is subject to availability, if we cannot provide you with an assistant, your mobility in the ashram will be your responsibility.