The Sacred Paduka: A Blessing from Ayodhya Ram
This sacred Paduka has been blessed and sent from Ayodhya. It symbolizes the divine connection to Lord Rama and his teachings. The Paduka represents the very same one carried in the historical procession from Chitrakoot, where Bharata met Lord Rama. In that poignant moment, Bharata humbly requested Lord Rama to return to the kingdom. When Lord Rama declined, Bharata, guided by the wisdom of their Kula Guru, recognized the profound spiritual significance of the Paduka. Understanding that it embodied the essence of the divine self—the Brahma—Bharata requested the Paduka to symbolize Lord Rama’s presence.
The Paduka’s Journey: Blessings Across Homes
The Paduka will embark on a nationwide journey, consecrating the homes of devotees with Lord Rama’s presence. It must be welcomed with the same respect and devotion as if Lord Rama himself were entering your home. Traditionally, the head of the family or the most revered member receives the Paduka and places it on a Peetham (an elevated, decorated platform or seat).
Once placed, the ritual begins by offering flowers while chanting the 108 names of Lord Rama—known as Sree Rama Ashtothara Shata Namavali. This sacred mantra can be accessed in various languages at Vignanam.org.
Although any flower can be used, red rose petals are most commonly offered. To preserve the Paduka, flowers are placed on a plate in front of it, rather than directly on it. This offering, known as Archana, is followed by Bhog (Naivedyam). Bhog refers to food offerings, with Naivedyam symbolizing food prepared in its purest form, often with ghee. Simple offerings like a banana, other fruits, or Panakam (Panakam Recipe) are also acceptable. The prayer concludes with an Arati.
Couples performing the Pooja and Arati together are encouraged, as this ritual fosters family unity.
Signup
We are at capacity for for the January Yatra. Will have a new schedule for Mid February, when Sreeshakti Shantaananda Maharshi will be at Ashram. Link for the registration will be published soon. Those who are interested in worshiping the Paduka may please assemble at any of the public locations or join if any of your friends are hosting.
Current overall schedule is Jan 8th at Austin, 9th at North Houston, 10th South Houston and 11th at Ashram site. These are the locations open to all. All public functions are on Saturday the 11th of January.
10:00 AM to 1:30 PM – Havan – Sree Rama Dasa Ashram – 17119 McLean Rd, Pearland, TX 77584
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM – Sree Meenakshi Temple, 17130 McLean Rd, Pearland, TX 77584
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Shri Krishna Vrundavana Houston, 10251 Synott Rd, Sugar Land, TX 77498
5:15 PM – 6:15 PM – Swaminarayan VadtalDham Mandir, 10825 Clodine Rd, Richmond, TX 77407
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM – Shirdi Sai Jalaram Mandir , 13845 W Bellfort , Sugarland TX 7749
Schedule and Final Installation
The Paduka’s visit at each location lasts approximately one hour:
- 15 minutes for preparation and settling in.
- 15 minutes for the Archana to Arati ritual.
- The remaining time for discussions and Q&A.
After each visit, the Paduka returns to the Ashram (17119 McLean Rd, Pearland, TX 77584), near the Meenakshi Temple, for the monthly Havan. Upon completing its nationwide tour, the Paduka will be permanently enshrined at the Ashram, allowing devotees to visit and worship at their convenience.