.Arañña Saṅghārāma in the stillness of winter.
The Stillness of Winter: Returning to the Rhythm
January began in a spirit of dedication and renewed aspiration. After welcoming the New Year with a weeklong retreat, Arañña Saṅghārāma gently returned to its regular rhythm of chanting, meditation, alms round, and work on the land. The stillness of winter supported steady practice, and both resident monastics and lay guests settled back into the simplicity of daily life.
“In stillness, the rhythm of practice quietly returns”.
Chanting the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta.
On the 3rd of January, the Saṅgha together with resident lay guests marked the full moon (Purnima) with a ceremonial chanting of the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta during the evening pūjā — recollecting the Blessed One’s first turning of the Wheel of Dhamma and reflecting on the Four Noble Truths as the foundation of practice.
Living Legacy: The Light and the Lotus
A rare opportunity for reflection and connection
During the month, Bhante Mahāpañño and Bhante Anavajjo travelled to Delhi for medical care. While there, they joined lay supporters in attending the opening day of the historic exhibition of the Buddha’s relics, “The Light and the Lotus.” It was a rare and moving opportunity to pay respects and reflect on the living legacy of the Buddha’s presence in the world.
Paying respects to the Buddha’s relics
Later in the month, Bhante Utthāno and Bhante Tissaro also travelled to Delhi for Bhante Utthāno’s ongoing physical therapy treatments. During their stay, they too had the opportunity to visit the relics exhibition and pay their respects, deepening their sense of connection to the Buddha’s dispensation. They were also the grateful recipients of several meal invitations offered by devoted lay supporters.
Welcoming Ajahn Sek
Ajahn Sek arriving in Chandigarh.
Bhante Utthāno and Bhante Tissaro continued their journey from Delhi to Chandigarh, accompanied by Ajahn Gunakaro, who was travelling to receive Ajahn Sek, a senior monk of the Wat Pah Pong community, at the airport.
While in Chandigarh, the monks gratefully received a generous meal offering from Savita, a central supporter in the local Dhamma community, and shared reflections on the possibility of Luang Por Liem visiting during the upcoming anniversary celebrations in February — an inspiring prospect for many.
Amidst the foothills
Ajahn Sek arrived at Arañña Saṅghārāma that same day and is staying through the February anniversary event. During his time here, he has been offering guidance and encouragement to the community.
During his stay, Ajahn Sek, together with Ajahn Gunakaro, was warmly invited for tea by the villagers of Rampur Gainda, strengthening the bond between the monastery and the local community. They also visited the nearby elementary school, where their presence was received with joy and curiosity by the children and staff — a simple yet meaningful gesture of connection.
Visit to Mantra Devi Temple and Dhamma Teachings
Guided by Ajahn Gunakaro, Ajahn Sek also visited the nearby ancient monastery site and climbed the mountain to the Mantra Devi Temple, appreciating the historical and spiritual atmosphere of the region.
During his stay, he also offered Dhamma teachings in a special evening session, responding to questions from those present both in person and online. His presence has brought strength and depth to the community during this period of preparation.
Shaping the Vision
Land surveying continued steadily, exploring potential sites for future kutis. The process is being thoughtfully guided by Swati, whose architectural and landscape insights are helping, as we together shape a vision that is both environmentally harmonious and supportive of contemplative life.
A Shared Responsibility & Unseen Effort
On January 18th, the monthly joint committee meeting between the Saṅgha and the Trust was held, where important matters concerning development and administration were discussed in a spirit of cooperation and shared responsibility.
Preparing the ground for the path ahead.
Meanwhile, much unseen effort has been steadily unfolding behind the scenes. A dedicated team of volunteers has been carefully planning and organizing the upcoming anniversary event to mark one year since the inauguration of the monastery. Their generosity of time, energy, and faith is deeply appreciated.
As January draws to a close, Arañña Saṅghārāma continues in gratitude — for the opportunity to practice, for the generosity of supporters near and far, and for the shared aspiration to establish a place of refuge and Dhamma in this region.
“Much of what sustains the Saṅghārāma is unseen — offered quietly, with faith and care.”
Visiting and Supporting
Visitors are warmly welcome to the monastery.
👉 Visitor Guidelines:
https://aranyavihara.in/visiting-aranya-sangharama/
If you would like to support the monastery in its Dhamma service, please see below:
🙏 Offerings:
https://aranyavihara.in/offerings-aranya-sangharama/
📝 Content Courtesy:
Bhante Tissaro
Yashika Pokhriyal
📸 Photo Credits:
- Arañña Saṅghārāma Collection
- Heartfelt gratitude to lay disciples for sharing photographs for this newsletter
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