The Winter Retreat 2025 at Ananda Vrati was held from December 27, 2025, to January 1, 2026, and was attended by thirty-five participants. The retreat offered a more relaxed and intimate program, with interactive workshops and a strong devotional focus. Daily Akhanda Kiirtana formed the spiritual backbone of the retreat, culminating in six continuous hours of Kiirtana on December 31.
The retreat began on Saturday, December 27, with Akhanda Kiirtana, setting a deeply devotional tone for the days ahead. Another Akhanda Kiirtana followed on December 28, along with an afternoon walk and a heartfelt Katha Kiirtana session. During this sharing, participants were invited to speak openly about their personal spiritual experiences, whether or not they had met Baba physically. Many touching and inspiring stories were shared, creating a strong sense of collective connection.
On Monday, December 29, Didi Ananda Acira led a series of cooperative games that allowed participants to relax, connect, and enjoy one another’s company in a joyful and lighthearted atmosphere. The afternoon Sadhana Shivir was especially inspiring, as participants sincerely alternated between Kiirtana and meditation in three consecutive rounds, deepening both individual and collective focus.
Tuesday, December 30, featured an afternoon Akhanda Kiirtana, followed by an evening of cultural sharing, where participants expressed devotion and creativity in a variety of forms. On Wednesday, December 31, Ac. Unmantrananda Avt. conducted an engaging workshop on Baba’s legacy. Margiis and Ácáryas actively participated in a meaningful dialogue, reflecting on Baba’s enduring contributions to both individual spiritual life and the broader welfare of humanity. The afternoon Akhanda Kiirtana was deeply absorbing, and the evening program carried the collective spirit into the New Year with meditation, Baba videos, and a devotional welcome to 2026.
January 1 marked both the first day of the New Year and the conclusion of the retreat. Participants shared Ananda Vanii in various languages, emphasizing the universality of Baba’s message and the spirit of unity that had developed over the course of the retreat.
The main organizer of the retreat was Ac. Unmantrananda Avt., with dedicated assistance from
Ac. Diiptimánánanda Avt., Ac. Kovid Brc., Ac. Priyakrśńa Brc., Avtk. Ánanda Hitaprabha Ácáryá, and Avtk. Ánanda Acirá Ácáryá Their collective effort ensured a well-coordinated, harmonious, and spiritually uplifting experience for all participants.
Accommodation was arranged at Ananda Vrati and two nearby Airbnbs, giving participants the freedom to choose between the tranquil atmosphere of the off-site lodging or the convenience and comfort of staying at the Master Unit. This flexibility was appreciated and contributed to the relaxed nature of the retreat.
Overall, participants left the Winter Retreat feeling deeply refreshed, uplifted, and vibrated by the sustained Kiirtana, collective meditation, and the serene natural surroundings.
