hanuman temple

we spent one night in the parking lot of the hanuman temple in taos, new mexico.  lord hanuman is the ape god of the hindu religion, he is an avatar of lord shiva and represents the perfect servant and devotee of lord rama and is worshipped  as a symbol of physical strength, perseverance and devotion.  the whole saga of hanuman is long and complicated so if you are interested google hanuman and read all about this amazing ape god of strength and devotion.

we arrived just before the evening aarti which is singing devotional meditation and so we could take part.  this singing meditation is quite complicated, beautiful melodies and amazing hindu words sung together in a group. lots of bell ringing and different blessings with a candle flame and at the end everyone is given fruit that has been blessed by being on the alter during the singing.  it was a wonderful experience and the people of the ashram were very warm and welcoming, feeding us yummy blessed food and chai.  i don't have a lot of experience with the hindu tradition but it was really interesting to be able to take part in this joyful and beautiful celebration of devotion to this mighty deity.

the guru connected to this ashram is neem karoli baba also known as maharaji. he was a great saint who lived in india until his death in 1973.  he never came to america but has many devotees here in the states.   his teachings are simple and universal.  he taught that all is one, love everyone, serve everyone, feed everyone.  this ashram is devoted to him.

lord haunman

ashram kitchen

temple door

the ashram garden

stained glass

visit www.nkbashram.org