Entering the Season of Renewal.
Holi Observance & Quiet Retreat Period
Spring Blooms: A Joyful Holi at Arañña Saṅghārāma.
The Holi period was observed as a peaceful three-day retreat, centred on meditation, reflection, and devotional practice. Beginning on 3 March with meditation and Dhamma reflections by Ajahn Gunakaro, the days unfolded gently with an evening lamp-lighting ceremony, circumambulation, chanting, and offerings.
On 4 March, participants came together for chanting, meditation, and the alms round (piṇḍapāta), followed by a water-blessing ceremony at the Buddha rūpa — a quiet reflection on cultivating a calm and composed mind.
The retreat concluded on 5 March with silent meditation and tea, nurturing mindfulness, mettā, and a sense of harmonious community.
“Regular weekend retreats are now held on the first weekend of each month”.
Practice Period in Himachal Pradesh
Practice and Community in the Hills
At the end of February, following the successful conclusion of First Anniversary celebrations, Bhante Anavajjo and Bhante Tissaro travelled to the Deer Park Institute in Bir, Himachal Pradesh, accepting a kind invitation from the Institute.
Nestled in the Tibetan colony of Bir, at the foothills of the Dhauladhar range, the setting offered a quiet and supportive environment for practice. The monks stayed in a peaceful corner of the grounds, near an organic garden where much of the Institute’s vegetables are grown. This peaceful setting proved especially conducive to walking meditation, and many hours were spent there in quiet practice.
During their stay, the monks also connected with many spiritual seekers, both from the Institute’s community and those attending its programs, engaging in conversations around the Buddha’s teachings. Alongside the daily meal generously offered by the Institute, they were warmly invited to the homes of several members of the Deer Park community, experiencing warm hospitality throughout their stay.
Visits and Connections in Himachal Pradesh
Warm Hospitality and Strengthening Bonds in the Hills
The monks also had the opportunity to visit Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo at her nunnery, Dongyu Gatsal Ling. She expressed interest in the development of Arañña Saṅghārāma and offered her encouragement and support.
On 19 March, the monks departed Deer Park to accept the invitation of Nitish, a supporter of the monastery, to stay at his family’s house in the village of Salyana. There, they went on piṇḍapāta each morning and were graciously received by the local villagers, many of whom had little prior familiarity with the Theravāda tradition.
This period was especially quiet and secluded—allowing for sustained meditation, supported by simplicity, stillness, and the rhythms of village life.
Saṅgha and Community Updates
Blessings, teachings, and shared journeys.
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We are happy to share that Ven. Parakamo has joined the Arañña Saṅghārāma Saṅgha and is currently in Delhi receiving treatment for his knee. We wish him a smooth recovery and look forward to his return to the monastery.
Ven. Tissaro and Ven. Anavajjo spent several weeks in Himachal Pradesh for a quiet period of practice. On 20 March, Ven. Tissaro travelled to Delhi to join Ven. Parakamo and Ajahn Ñāṇavaro in attending the engagement ceremony of Rahul, the monastery steward. From there, the three continued to a Dhamma event hosted at a Vipassana practice center in Rohtak, together with several local monks, where they stayed for two nights. Ajahn Ñāṇavaro offered Dhamma teachings during this visit.
They then accepted a meal invitation in Agra. Ven. Tissaro and Ajahn Ñāṇavaro have since returned to the monastery, while Ven. Parakamo has remained in Delhi to continue his treatment. Bhante Anavajjo is continuing his retreat in Himachal.
Land and Boundary Maintenance
Ongoing Care and Strengthening of the Land and Boundaries
Extensive maintenance work across the monastery grounds continues steadily. Ongoing efforts include the removal of weeds, pruning of saplings, daily watering, mulching, and the application of manure, along with soil care around young trees—supporting the long-term health and sustainability of the monastery environment.
Alongside this, progress has been made in marking and strengthening the monastery boundaries. Additional pillars have been installed where needed, and existing fencing has been repaired. The boundary is now clearly and continuously defined.
Survey and Development Work
The contour mapping and high-resolution survey of the monastery’s 28-acre land has been successfully completed by IIT Roorkee. This project was generously sponsored by Amit ji, and we express heartfelt anumodanā to Amit, Abhilasha, and Virag for their continued support of the monastery.
Safety soil testing for the planned kutis has also been completed, and the report has been shared to support future construction planning.
Master Plan Development
Collaborative discussions shaping the monastery’s future development
During the visit of Ajahn Kevali for the anniversary observance, several important steps were undertaken in developing the monastery’s master plan. Swati, the landscape architect working closely with the monastery, consulted with Saṅgha members and prepared an initial draft.
This draft was presented to Ajahn Kevali, Luang Por Liem, and Luang Por Jundee, and subsequently refined based on their guidance. The updated version has since been shared with the Saṅgha for further input. This remains an ongoing and collaborative process.
Closing Reflection
The steady development of Arañña Saṅghārāma continues through the combined efforts of the Saṅgha and its supporters. We rejoice in the merit of all who contribute to sustaining this place of practice.
“From winter’s stillness to spring’s unfolding, the journey continues”.
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
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