Vannakkam everyone
Today was the last day of Navaratri, and a Saraswati Puja was held at the temple. For the last 8 nights, I've been busy attending relatives' ubhaiyams, which were held in various temples. Being with relatives would mean lots of talking and I couldn't really concentrate on the prayers.
But today, at yet another relative's ubhaiyam, I told myself that I would concentrate on the prayer and puja completely. Unknown to me, something was about to happen.
The moment the Dhyanam was chanted in a beautiful tune by the chief priest, I couldn't control myself anymore and started tearing. I just couldn't help it.
I was so confused as to why I was tearing. I know that the priest's tone of voice was so powerful yet enchanting at the same time. I felt completely overwhelmed. I've heard many priests chanting before and yes I felt very emotional, and my eyes maybe went watery, but this was the first time I would tear out of devotion in a temple surrounded by many relatives and family friends.
For a moment I felt like sneaking out of the temple and running to the car, but it would definitely attract the attention of my cousins.
Embarrassed, I bent my head downwards and remained like that for a long time, silently asking the Goddesses to not let me cry out fully. I didn't dare look up but I'm sure others noticed. I felt like disappearing into the ground.
It was rather serene and enlightening and confusing at the same time. The music combined with the chanting of the chief priest (who is also my uncle), moved me so much and transported me to a different world. I was so thankful to the Goddesses and thanked Them for everything They have given me. I didn't know what else to say or do.
Tomorrow is Vijayadasami and I can't wait to watch the Goddess Durga slaying the demon Mahishasura to become Mahishasuramardhini. There will be an enactment of the story in many temples.
Hope everyone has a great time celebrating this beautiful festival!
Aum Sri Durgaya Namah
Aum Sri Maha Lakshmiyei Namah
Aum Sri Saraswatyei Namah
Aum Namah Shivaya
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