Hyderabad: On Monday, the Hare Krishna Movement celebrated the joyful ‘Panihati Chida-Dahi’ Festival with devotion and enthusiasm.
The Chida-Dahi Mahotsava is a key event in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition. It honors Srila Raghunatha Dasa Goswami, who, following Sri Nityananda Prabhu's guidance over 500 years ago, hosted a grand feast of chipped rice mixed with yogurt, milk, fruits, and more at Panihati, West Bengal.
This act was a heartfelt offering to Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Sri Nityananda Prabhu, symbolizing the Lord’s mercy and the joy found in serving with devotion. Known also as the Danda Mahotsava (Festival of Punishment), it underscores the idea that serving the Lord’s devotees with humility leads to spiritual growth.
The day started with Japa Yajna, Nagar Sankirtan (devotional street chanting), and a ceremony to initiate new devotees. Highlights included a drama by Gurukul children, an inspiring pravachan, and a stunning Boat Festival. A special Abhishekam honored the deities of Sri Nitai Gauranga using Panchamrita, Panchagavya, fruit juices, flowers, herbs, and Navaratnas (nine gems), accompanied by chanting of Vedic hymns.
Satya Gaura Chandra Dasa Prabhuji, President of the Hare Krishna Movement Hyderabad, shared insights, saying the festival shows that serving the Lord’s devotees is the surest way to receive blessings. It encourages joyful participation in devotional service for divine peace and prosperity. The event ended with an inspiring pravachan and a delicious prasadam dinner for all attendees.
