Narrator:
Sound of the blowing of the conch shell (Sankha) and the ringing of ceremonial bells, marking the beginning of the ritual.
Chorus:
Jai Maa! Jai Maa! (Hail Mother!) The tempo of the percussion increases. Rhythmic chanting of "Jai Maa" continues as the ritual preparations proceed.
Priest:
Om. I bow to the Divine Mother. This hymn brings great fruits to those who recite it with devotion. It removes fear and grants success in this age of struggle. To those without children, it grants children; to those seeking wealth, it grants prosperity. Whether in times of danger, war, or crisis, one who remembers these names finds steady ground.
Priest:
In Vaikuntha, she is the giver of all boons. As Indrani, she is the power of the heavens. In the form of time, she is Mahakali. She resides as Annapurna in Varanasi, as Bhadrakali in Kurukshetra, and as Maheshwari in Ayodhya. In the mountains of Kamakhya, she is the supreme power. From the peaks of the Himalayas to the shores of the sea, we bow to her.
Narrator:
Music swells with traditional drums (Dhak) and cymbals.
Host:
Please, say a few words to our audience.
Organizer/Priest:
What should I say? Today the puja is in full swing. The Homa Yagna (fire ritual) is currently underway. It will continue throughout the entire night. Our special guest has arrived.
Host:
Yes, let me introduce him. He is our local MLA, Mr. Jiban Mukhopadhyay. He is not only a political figure but also a distinguished writer, scholar, and historian. He has authored many textbooks for students in classes 9 through 12. He is a very renowned personality, and we are honored that he has graced us with his presence.
Guest Speaker:
I come here every year. Being able to return this year makes me feel truly blessed. The Mother's worship is happening here, and this is a sacred atmosphere. I always find a deep sense of peace and a unique spiritual feeling when I visit this place. Thank you.
Narrator:
The ritual music resumes. Heavy percussion and bells accompany the continuation of the fire ritual.
Speaker:
The annual festival of Shantikunja is held here every year. However, this year, due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, we have had to significantly scale down the festivities and shorten the duration of the program. Throughout the year, our Gurudev (spiritual teacher) remains dedicated to the service of humanity. Even during the height of the pandemic, he was here daily, performing rituals and praying to the Mother for the welfare of all people. He is a true seeker and a pride of our region. Personally, I feel very fortunate to be in his presence and to witness this devotion.
Host:
Look at the smiling, blissful face of our Divine Mother. Everyone is overwhelmed with joy upon seeing her. She is a magnificent presence; whoever comes to her never leaves empty-handed.
Priest:
Om Hrim Shrim Hum Matayai, Bhairava-sahita Shrimat Dakshina Kalikayai Svaha! (Meaning: Salutations to the Divine Mother, who is accompanied by Bhairava, the Great Dakshina Kali. We offer this sacrifice into the fire.)
Host:
You are witnessing the Great Fire Ritual being performed by our revered priest for the purpose of world peace and the welfare of all humanity.
Narrator:
The mantra "Om Hrim Shrim Hum Matayai, Bhairava-sahita Shrimat Dakshina Kalikayai Svaha" is repeated rhythmically over and over as offerings are cast into the sacred fire. The audio concludes with the sounds of the ritual cymbals and the intensifying chants.