RISHIKESH - INDIA (Yoga capital of the world)

RISHIKESH - INDIA (Yoga capital of the world)

Set in the foothills of the Himalaya mountains, and on the banks of the holy Ganga River (Ganges), lies Rishikesh, one of the most sacred places in India. Hindu temples abound, together with small market stalls selling everything the visitor needs, incense sticks, music CDs of mantras and devotional music, jewellery, food, clothes etc.

Visitors are by no means all Hindus as the yoga practice of the Hindu religion has become a world famous way to relax and to keep fit. Indeed many yoga aficionados are unaware of the Indian roots of the yoga lifestyle, and the philosophy behind yoga, and only see it as a fitness activity.

Yoga and meditation schools are everywhere, as are places to have ayurvedic treatments and training. In addition there are many ashrams, defined as “usually secluded residence of a religious community and its guru”, which welcome devotees from India, and spiritual seekers from all parts of the world, and from all beliefs. Ashrams usually house orphans who are educated and brought up as monks, and welcome strangers to stay. For many it is a place for a quiet retreat, for others a place to gather wisdom, for some a relaxation before exploring more of India..

Rishikesh lies on two sides of the fast flowing river. Two suspension bridges connect the two sides. The bridges are always busy with people, monkeys, sacred cows, which wander everywhere, and motor bikes.

As the sun sets the young monks chant and pay homage to the Lord Shiva, whose statue sits proudly above the river bank. Many foreigners join the nightly ceremony.

Life goes on as in many parts of India, bathing and washing of clothes in the clean waters of the river, people sleeping in the shade of trees, or sitting around for hours in the presence of a Baba, a Holy Man, for inspiration and guidance. People just “be”, seemingly doing nothing for hours.

The whole region lives a vegetarian lifestyle, The cow is sacred, but all life is also sacred. On asking permission to photograph a monk, offering food to passers by outside a monastery, he replied, “no, I am not important”, and presented his food offering. This humility is everywhere.

Getting there is another story, another article. However Delhi is the nearest airport, and taking a first class seat in a train, the most comfortable and cost effective way. But don’t arrive at New Delhi station and expect to buy a ticket.

And don’t expect to return to your home country without some effect from the strong energies of the place. A visit is for many a true life changing experience.