From 21–28 December 2025, over 200 seekers from across the world gathered in the sacred city of Varanasi to explore the profound spiritual insights of the Shiva Purana, in the joyful presence of Swami Abhedananda (In-Charge of Chinmaya Mission South Africa). Over seven days, devotees had a blissful time at this enlightening and fulfilling spiritual retreat. 

Through power-packed discourses, Swami Abhedananda revealed life-changing knowledge from the Shiva Purana, in the sacred space of Kashi, for listeners who had gathered from across India, South Africa, USA, UAE, Australia, Portugal, Germany and Singapore. What was once mistaken by many as an orthodox book of obsolete stories, became an endearing lifeline of practical wisdom for all. 

Sharing insights from various stories of the Shiva Purana, Swami Abhedananda brought out faith as an essential element in a seeker’s spiritual journey. A unique highlight was the assurance of Lord Shiva’s boundless accessibility - His acceptance of all beings and offerings, when presented with single-pointed focus and intense devotion. The talks also emphasised the universal teaching of four pillars of spiritual fulfilment: service to humanity, joy in God, devotion to the Guru and knowledge of the Self.

Notably, the key insights from the camp were published daily in the Uttar Pradesh edition of Dainik Bhaskar, as reporters attended the camp each day to gather and share these gems of knowledge with a wider audience. 

Campers enjoyed comfortable accommodation and sumptuous daily meals, and also visited the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other sacred temples of Kashi. Also gracing the camp were Swami Keshavananda (Akola), Brahmachari Raghavendra Chaitanya (Jhansi), Brahmacharini Shubhani Chaitanya (New York), Brahmacharini Bhagwati Chaitanya (Mandhana), Brahmacharini Shashwati Chaitanya (Prayagraj) and Brahmacharini Vrinda Chaitanya (Jodhpur). With many first-time participants, the visionary legacy of the Guru Parampara left an indelible impression on every heart, inspiring a lasting connection to Vedantic wisdom.

Om Namah Shivaya!