Interviewer:
Guru-deb, my respects to you.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
Blessings, my child, blessings.
Interviewer:
Today, we are here at the Adyasakti Kali Temple in Tribeni. You were the one who performed the consecration and the ritual of 'Chakhshu-daan' (opening of the eyes) for the Mother. You visit every year for the annual celebration, and you have graced us with your presence this year as well.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
Yes, I must come. I have been coming here for five years now; time has passed quickly. It is my duty to come to the Mother.
Interviewer:
If you could please say a few words about this annual festival.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
This annual festival is celebrated in honor of the Mother's anniversary. It marks the day she was established here. Every year, we conduct special prayers, rituals, and a 'Hom-Yagna' (fire ritual). We also perform the 'Mahasnan' (ritual bath) for the Mother. We have been doing this consistently for five years. The Mother here is very powerful and 'living.' That is why we are drawn here. My disciple is currently performing the rituals.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
(Addressing his disciple) Disciple, come here. Please set aside that cloth and come here for a moment.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
This is my disciple. He is the one performing the rituals. I have initiated him and entrusted him with these duties. He handles everything—the puja, the ritual baths, and the fire rituals.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
(To the disciple) How do you feel performing the Mother's puja?
Disciple:
It feels wonderful to serve the Mother. It fills my heart with joy.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
Yes, that is right.
Disciple:
It truly feels good. The temple is so well-organized and beautifully decorated. There are no flaws in the arrangements. I don't think there is a temple this grand in this entire region. There is a Bipadtarini temple nearby, but this one has been established for five years now. We perform all the rituals and fire sacrifices here.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
Very good, very good. I have grown old now and can no longer perform these tasks myself. However, I must attend as it is a tradition. My age prevents me from performing the puja, but I hope that you all will carry this legacy forward in the future. That is my hope.
Interviewer:
With your blessings, we will conclude our discussion for today. Thank you very much.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
Yes, let us proceed with the Mother's puja.
Guru Shyama Khyapa:
I must also mention Kartik-da, one of the founders here, and our legal advisor. They are not only committee members but were instrumental in founding this temple alongside me. The temple is running well, and it's heartening to see. There is a large gathering of people, though we must remain mindful of the current COVID-19 restrictions. Despite that, people have come to seek blessings, as you can see.
Interviewer:
Guru-deb, we will end today's episode here. My respects to you, Guru-deb. My respects to the Mother. We will finish here.