By Thirushka Chetty, South Africa
“Before I embark on my pilgrimage to you, Shiva, I’m leaving behind everything that doesn’t serve me or take me further spiritually. I’m coming to you with an open heart and spirit. Bless me on my journey.” This was my prayer before I left. Truth be told, I was more excited to see Mohanji and be in his presence and company.
My journey started with me almost missing my connecting flight from Doha to Nepal, running through the airport like in a Bollywood movie. I just managed to catch my connecting flight. It turned out that I landed in Nepal, but my luggage didn’t arrive. The stress and disappointment that I was feeling was overwhelming. Exhausted and disappointed that my luggage hadn’t arrived. I made my way outside to find the drivers. That’s when I met Neema (Shiva’s soldier). With a huge smile, he called me by name and said, “No luggage, wow, you travel light.” When I told him what happened without skipping a beat, he said he would fix it, don’t worry. Nothing else could go wrong now.
We got to the hotel, and there was quite a wait for us to check in, so I sat in the lobby, exhausted. When I was told that my room was ready, I was grateful just to freshen up and lay down. As I got into the elevator to go down to my room, the lights cut out, and I was stuck in the elevator for about 10 min. I made it to my room and rested for a while when reception called to say my luggage had arrived. What a relief it was!
It was lunchtime, so I made my way to the dining hall. As I turned around, Mohanji was standing in front of me. I was so surprised and excited. I went to take darshan from him. As I touched his feet, I felt a surge of energy pulsate through me. He said to me with a smile, “You are hungry. Go and eat. We will talk later.” Just in that moment, the calm and energy that washed over me were immense.
The Rudram chanting, done by Kannaiah, was one of the most magical experiences. The vibrations pulsated through my body in waves. The love and support from all the yatris were so overwhelming; even though I didn’t know anyone before the start of my trip, everyone was so welcoming and supportive that it felt like family.
The day we started our journey to Mahadev’s home (Kailash) was bittersweet because Mohanji was not physically coming with us. However, his presence was felt throughout the journey. I am so grateful to embark on this journey of a lifetime. The journey to Kailash came with its trials, but through it all, the protection and power of Shiva and Mohanji were always felt, and the collective energy of our group was so high.
On the morning of our visit to Mansarovar, we woke up to cold, dull, and rainy weather. I wondered to myself how we would have a dip at Mansarovar (something I have been looking forward to doing). One of the yatris suggested we all go into the tent that the sherpas had put up for us and chant. We set the intention that the sun should shine on us, and we are able to have a dip. We did three rounds of chanting, and lo and behold, the sun was out in its glory, shining at us. This shows the power of the collective.
After the homa was done at Mansarovar, we looked up and saw Surya Dev’s blessings in the form of a halo around the sun. Just being in the presence of the majestic Lake Mansarovar was pure grace. The energy felt at this lake was unlike anything I had ever experienced. There were moments when time stood still.
Day 1 of the Kailash Parikrama began with the 27 of us holding hands in a circle, setting our intention to complete the parikrama and being grateful for being a part of this journey. We gave thanks and started chanting. The energy was so powerful within the circle that the entire dining hall vibrated with Shiva’s energy.
Yamadwar – The gateway of the God of death. To visit Kailash, one must pass through Yamadwar, as Lord Yamraj guards this home of Shiva. This temple holds the lives, promises and memories of those who have come before you. A gateway where you are reborn. The bell inside solidifies the promises you make to yourself.
At the end of day 1 (Dhirapuk), despite the bashing rain and hail, I was faced with an influx of emotions: gratitude, excitement and astonishment, to name a few. Freezing and wet, I was received and blessed with the most breathtaking view of Mount Kailash. The blanket of clouds, like a crown on Shiva’s head, was a spectacular sight. It was as if Shiva himself was there to welcome and receive me. All I could do was just stand there, enthralled in Shiva’s power.
On day 2, I was so excited to start this journey up Dolma La Pass because I knew I would be met with the sight of Gauri Kund at its peak. Starting the journey with Kailash behind us, the sun just rising, and the crisp morning air, I was enthusiastic for the journey ahead. As breathlessness slowly crept in, I decided to ride my trusted pony. Through the will of Shiva and Mohanji, I reached the peak and had to get off the pony and walk down the mountain. Laying eyes on this enchanting lake of Gauri Kund was like witnessing a blossoming flower on a spring morning.
The journey up and down the mountain was extremely difficult, but Shiva will never let you down. Even before I knew I needed help, help arrived with a loving smile always. During the descent, Moushumi was my source of comfort. A little rest stop met us at the bottom of the mountain. Just as Moushumi and I got into the little tea house, I saw a very exhausted Harrish. The three of us sat in comfortable silence, just taking it all in and enjoying some much-needed rest.
Once I reached the base camp (Zhuthulpuk), I was unable to walk; my knees were swollen and extremely sore. Doubt started to set in that I was not going to make the rest of the journey. I sat in silence again; Shiva immediately removed any doubt. Help was sent in the form of Kannaiah with kind, encouraging words and water from Gauri Kund. He said, “To heal you, here is water from Devi Ma.” Sweet as nectar, I received the water with so much love and appreciation that it was a blessing beyond imagination.
Day 3 marked the culmination of the parikrama. The beauty of the fresh morning breeze on my face was an enthralling feeling; all my emotions and senses were heightened, and gratitude was all I could feel. The mountains were softly singing to me in union with the soft rumble of the river beside me. My gratitude to my Guru Mohanji for holding on to me and never letting me go. Gratitude to the Tradition and my lineage for choosing me to journey through this sacred land and to my Supreme, my ultimate Mahadeva. I will be forever grateful for your grace upon me.
‘Om Namah Shivaya, Shivaya Namah Om’
|| JAI BRAHMARISHI MOHANJI ||
Edited & Published by – Testimonials Team, 3rd June 2025
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