Canada Programs 2024: A Year of Growth and Education
LPT Brother Nirmal has been very actively working in Toronto and Ottawa Region with the help of Ac. Dayashiilananda Avt., sister Madhuvidyá and other new Margiis. By His grace, 2024 has been a year of significant progress in Canada, with successful in-person and online programs, including collective meditations, seminars, and arts events that fostered learning, connection, and service.
In-Person Programs
Nirmal launched an AM UOFT club, hosting two yoga and meditation classes and planning further activities for students. In Toronto, Nirmal, Japesh, and Dada Dayashiilananda organized seminars focusing on wellbeing, fasting, and sattvic diets. Meanwhile, in Montreal, Brother Jiivan Deva hosted Meyoda, an arts-spiritual festival blending yoga, contemplative arts, and African and Haitian Kompa dances. Nirmal and Dada enthusiastically participated in the dancing, adding to the joy of the event.
A RAWA program led by Nirmal and Madhuvidyā on November 15 showcased poetry, music, and performances. Young participants recited works by Tagore, Kipling, and Rumi and presented original compositions. In Bradford, Brother Trilokesh and Sister Gaunga organized a seminar where senior and new margiis gathered, building strong relationships that have continued through online and in-person collaboration.
Online Education and Sadhana
The Pracar School Study Circle successfully trained new Meditation Steps instructors, including Madhuvidyā, Aditya, Ekamati, Svastii, and Tejashrii. Nirmal conducted courses on Basic Meditation Steps, Love and Care in Education, and Non-Violent Communication. In collaboration with Madhuvidyā, he developed the ongoing Ethics of Tantra Yoga program, covering Yama-Niyama principles, 15 Shiilas, and Caryacarya’s teachings.
Online Panchajanya sessions (5–6:15 AM EST), initiated by Madhuvidyā, have run consistently for several months, drawing participants from Ontario, Quebec, and the USA.
Devotional and Service Programs
Monthly 3-hour kirtan programs, coordinated by Chitranjan, have strengthened both digital and in-person connections. These events have fostered a spirit of unity, dialogue, and cooperation among margiis and Acaryas, helping to reconcile past differences.
Meditation Retreats in Canada
This summer, Ananda Marga Canada hosted two enriching events, fostering spiritual growth and community connection. The beginner’s meditation retreat at Ananda Kanak Master Unit from August 9–11 welcomed fourteen participants for an inspiring blend of spiritual learning and practical practices. Sessions on Prama, Neohumanism, kiirtan, group meditations, and asanas offered depth and balance. Guided by Avtk. Ananda Kalyanmitra Ac. and Ac. Dayashiilananda Avt., the retreat also featured recreational outings, nourishing meals, and community bonding. Sustainability efforts included planting black walnut trees, cultivating eggplants, and using a neighbor’s greenhouse to expand the garden.
From August 2–4, the summer seminar at SAJO, near Ananda Kanak, united Margiis from Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto for a weekend of spiritual education and connection. Led by Ac. Diiptimanananda Avt., Ac. Anudhyanananda Avt., and Ac. Iishvarakrsnananda Avt., the program included three seminar classes on Ananda Marga philosophy, Katha Kiirtana, Akhanda Kiirtana, and Dharma Cakras, fostering a devotional atmosphere. Participants also enjoyed nature walks, kayaking on a nearby lake, and moments of reflection.
Both events highlighted the harmonious blend of spiritual practices, community engagement, and sustainability, leaving attendees inspired and connected to the values of Ananda Marga.