Menoculayshunal; Getting Going

All students arrived at the ashram by August 29th with a view to starting studies a week later. In that first week, there was quite a bit to organise to get us going. We were all measured up for our 'सफ़ेद कपड़े' (safed kapade - white clothes); we were all gifted our foodware - one गिलास (gilass - tumbler), one थाली (thaalii - plate), one चम्मच (chammach - spoon); we had various texts required to start courses - particularly for Sanskrit; there was paper work to sort. 

For those of us who had travelled from overseas (and a fair number of NRI [non-resident Indians] attended), it was necessary to report to the Police Commissioner's "Special Branch Office" to have our visas and passports validated. It was a day out.

That unlikely looking back street entrance in central Mumbai housed a warren of bureaucratic happening. We first had to wait behind this barrier. Then we were called upstairs to a passageway with chairs and another lengthy wait. Then through security to enter the interview waiting area. then eventually into the interview spots themselves, where everything was vetted closely, photocopied, stamped at least three times and questions asked and then asked a different way. 

All this because India has a significant influx of illegal immigrants. ...

Back at Sandeepany, we were encouraged to take all the meals on offer, but the evening meal was not compulsory for those of us considered 'elders'. The food was simple and subtle and, to start with, I took all that was on offer. It was important to acknowledge that the food was provided as 'bhiksha' - alms - by wealthy patrons seeking to provide for those who follow the spiritual path. Food was also one of the spiritual challenges, as will be described in later posts.

Other than that, the first week was spent familiarising oneself with the grounds and buildings and enjoying the tranquillity provided, despite all the noise and activity on the other side of the boundary. Tomorrow, you will find quite a few photos from the ashram surrounds, but here's a couple to whet your interest.